If you have noticed that one of your home's windows has a crack in it, you may think that it only detracts from the appearance of your house. However, there are potential problems that the cracked window could pose if left unrepaired.
Inability to Resist Wind
One of the functions of your windows is to block out the wind, keeping the temperature of your home constant without the interference of the outside air. However, when the glass is cracked, a window is no longer able to fully resist the wind, creating two potential problems for your house.
First, since the crack in your window is allowing for an exchange of air from both the inside and outside of your home, your furnace or air conditioner will have to work harder to keep the interior hot or cool. The extra power required to run your HVAC system will then cause a rise in your energy bill.
Second, the crack could make the glass unable to withstand the high pressure of strong winds. If you have a particularly bad storm with high wind gusts, the force from these gusts could make the glass shatter. Not only would this allow water to pour into your home, but the broken glass could injure you or one of your family members.
Chance of Water Leaks Increases
A shattered window is not the only way water will come into your home when the glass is cracked. Even if the crack appears to be tight with no openings, there is an increased chance that water will seep through the small opening, without you even being aware of it.
If the leaking water goes unnoticed, any of your possessions under the window could slowly become saturated over time. The slow seepage of water can also affect the wallpaper and paint around the window, as well as damage the seals on the window itself.
As this small water leak continues, there is an increased risk that it will lead to mold and mildew growth on the window, walls, and furniture. If any of your family members have allergies or asthma, this growth could lead to an increase in symptoms.
If you have a crack in one of your home's windows, consider having it fixed before it creates problems for you and your household. Contact a window restoration service to have them inspect the window, and discuss your options for window repair.
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