Your basement windows in Highland Park, IL are important. They give you light and ventilation, even if the majority of the room is below ground. But still, you might not spend a lot of time in your basement. You may not pay close attention to this aspect of your home and won’t notice when you need to replace these windows. Don’t put it off too long, or you might have more than just windows to replace. Here are a few signs to watch for that suggest you need replacement windows in your basement:

Rotting

This is a sure sign your window frame has been compromised, perhaps more. Wood windows are the most prone to rot, especially wood basement windows. Because they are so close to ground level, moisture tends to pool around basement windows. The frames will swell, distort, and get moldy. You may also see damage on the sill or in the walls surrounding your basement windows. If you notice peeled paint, chipped plaster, or stains—you might have a moisture leak. You will want to get replacement windows as soon as possible to prevent further damage. And when choosing replacement windows, you want a material like vinyl or fiberglass that is resistant to moisture.

Condensation

Have you walked into the basement and noticed fog clouding your windows? This is a sign of poor insulation. Often you can improve ventilation or use a dehumidifier to get rid of the fog. But if condensation forms between the panes of glass, you have a larger problem on your hands. This is a sign that the seal is broken and the inert gas between the panes has leaked out. This allows moisture riddled air to fill the space, and lave droplets on the panes. If you heat and cool the basement, you will notice higher energy bills because of a loss of insulation.

Difficult Operation

Whether it is from disuse or a lack of maintenance, basements windows are often the first to fall into disrepair. They might also get stuck because of years of debris. If you can’t open your basement windows or lock them securely, this is more than a minor inconvenience. It can be a safety risk, especially in the case of a fire or other similar disaster. Don’t get caught in an unsafe situation.

Broken Glass

Cracks in the windows are the most obvious sign you need to repair or replace your windows. Broken glass means inefficiency. It is also an easy target for pests or other intruders. Some companies can replace a single pane, but other times, it is more prudent to replace the window, especially if they are older than 15 years in age.

If you need to replace old, drafty windows in your basement, call Scientific Home Services. We possess the highest level of product knowledge and commit to excellent service. This is what makes us one of the most trusted window replacement companies in Highland Park, IL. To contact us, please call (847) 752-0370. Or stop by and speak to one of our professionals by visiting 7240 Saint Louis Ave., Skokie, IL 60076.