Water Damage 101: Avoid the Bane of Rain Entering your Window Pane!

When your home falls prey to water damage it is about as much fun as spending a day at the DMV followed by a slap in the face. Your home is your castle, and not even the elements have the right to disrupt the tranquility within. But this is an imperfect world, and water damage can happen due to a number of reasons. According to the top Westchester County water damage companies most water damage scenarios result from pipe bursts and bad weather. In general homeowners are pretty good at removing snow from their roofs and sandbagging their home if the chance for flood water damage is increased. But seldom do people check their window panes!

Are my Window Panes in Good Condition?

The best way to tell if your window panes are in good condition is to check them for signs of moisture and water damage. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) window pane water damage is commonly caused by condensation that gets trapped—even in double window panes. If you detect any wetness or see bubbling from the paint, your window panes likely need to be replaced.

Are Double-Paned Windows Water Damage Proof?

Unfortunately, double-paned windows are not water damage proof. According to InterNACHI your double-paned windows may look stable, but in reality they all experience a daily cycle of contraction and expansion caused by thermal pumping—a phenomenon where sunlight heats the airspace between the panes and causes the gas to expand from heat exposure. Then at night the windows experience a cool down and the airspace contracts. Because the air constantly expands and contracts, this motion is known as thermal pumping and over time it can create large enough gaps for rain water to penetrate.

What are those Black Spots on my Window Panes?

If you have black spots on your window panes, you likely have a mold problem. When moisture gets trapped in the airspace between your panes mold spores can form and spread out to the wood and run down your walls. Black mold is extremely dangerous to human health, so if you encounter a mold problem be sure to call a certified mold removal expert immediately, as you don’t want to expose your loved ones to any household mold growth. Mold has been known to cause asthma, respiratory problems and even lung disease in otherwise healthy individuals, and children and the elderly are especially susceptible to its clutches.

What are the Best Window Panes?

When it comes to the best window panes, there isn’t any one type that is better than another. According to ConsumerReports.org the best window panes are those that fit the specific needs of every household. For example, if you have children you may need window panes that prevent little ones from opening the window where they may fall out. Also, depending on how eco-friendly you are, you may require window panes with high efficiency ratings.

Don’t let the bane of rain infiltrate your window pane; perform a routine inspection before the start of every rainy season and if you detect any moisture call in a professional to remediate the problem before it gets worse.