After a major Minnesota storm, your first instinct might be to check your roof or siding. But what about your windows? People often forget about them, even though they are just as weak. It’s essential to know the early indicators of storm-damaged windows so you can safeguard your house and stay safe.
Remember, if you don’t deal with minor issues today, they could get worse later. Some of these problems could be water leaks, higher energy bills, or damage to your building that you can’t see. Advantage Construction is a window replacement and storm recovery specialist. We’re here to help you determine what to look for and what to do next with your storm-damaged windows.
1. Cracked or Shattered Glass
The most noticeable sign of storm damage is cracks in the glass window. Whether caused by flying debris or high winds, even small fractures can weaken the window’s integrity.
Why You Can’t Afford To Ignore Broken Windows
Damaged glass lets air and moisture into your home, which makes your window less energy efficient. For example, it’s harder to keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Over time, these leaks can significantly affect how windows impact utility bills, making it more expensive to maintain consistent indoor temperatures year-round.
2. Broken Seals and Foggy Windows
Broken seals are one of the most common (and often overlooked) signs of storm damage to windows. After a storm, fog or condensation forms between the panes of your double- or triple-pane windows. Watch out for these signs:
- Fog inside the glass layers
- Moisture buildup even when it’s not humid
- A subtle draft near the window, even when closed
Why Should You Care About Foggy Windows
When the seal breaks, the insulating gas between the panes escapes. This means your window loses its thermal barrier, causing energy loss and higher utility bills.
3. Damaged Window Trim or Frame
Storms can bend, break, or pull apart the trim and framing around windows. This happens a lot if your home has wood or older composite trim that has seen previous wear.
Risks of Ignoring Trim Issues
Neglecting window trim problems can lead to more damage. Moisture may get in, which can cause mold to grow or harm the structure of your home. Additionally, compromised trim can decrease your home’s energy efficiency, leading to higher utility bills.
- Water can seep behind damaged trim and cause mold or wall rot
- Loose frames may cause the window to rattle or leak
- Structural integrity may weaken around the window opening
Some homeowners overlook minor window trim issues due to their lack of immediate consequences. They might perceive the expense of addressing these issues as unnecessary, particularly when other home maintenance tasks seem more pressing. However, neglecting these repairs can lead to more serious problems later on, potentially resulting in costly damage.
4. Leaks and Water Damage Around the Frame
If water is leaking, pooling, or discoloring the region surrounding your window following a storm, damage beyond mere aesthetics is likely present. Leaks can develop from gaps around the frame or hidden seal failures.
How It Escalates
Water that enters around a window after a severe storm can spread into wall cavities, insulation, and flooring. Left unaddressed, it often leads to mold, rotting drywall, and long-term structural problems.
The Real Price of Putting Off Window Repairs
Putting off an inspection or repair may feel like a way to save money now, but it often costs more down the line. Storm-damaged windows, especially those with seal failure or hidden leaks, tend to worsen with time. That means:
- Reduced energy efficiency
- More expensive interior renovations
- Shortened window lifespan
Even subtle damage can leave your home vulnerable to the next storm. Homeowners may inadvertently expose their properties to greater risks and expenses, as even minor issues can escalate quickly. Additionally, failing to address even minor issues may compromise your home’s protection against future weather events.
When Should You Replace a Storm-Damaged Window?
While some small problems can be fixed, it’s best to get a complete window replacement when:
- The glass is shattered or deeply cracked
- The seal has failed, and condensation is constant
- The frame is warped, broken, or no longer square
- Water damage has spread inside the wall
Replacing your window ensures long-term protection, energy savings, and peace of mind. It addresses the immediate issues caused by storm damage and prevents future problems arising from inadequate repairs. This proactive method helps keep your home in good shape and more energy-efficient.
Schedule a Professional Window Inspection
Storm damage isn’t always easy to spot, especially on windows. Even if there are no visible cracks or broken panes, a storm may have compromised the seal, frame, or insulation. That’s why scheduling a professional window inspection is one of the most important steps after severe weather.
What Does a Professional Inspection Involve?
We don’t just look at the glass when you contact our team for an inspection. We perform a full-system evaluation that includes:
- Glass Integrity Check
- Seal and Insulation Assessment
- Trim and Frame Inspection
- Interior Wall and Sill Review
- Storm Impact Documentation
Even if your windows “look fine” after a storm, we recommend a full storm damage inspection. We’ll provide a full damage report and help you decide whether repair or replacement is the right move.
What About Insurance?
If a recent storm damaged your windows, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the repair or replacement. We’ll assist with the documentation, written assessment, inspection photos, and estimates needed for your claim, including specific notes on what parts need repair or replacement.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Schedule Your Window Inspection Today
If you suspect that your windows were damaged by a storm, even if you notice minor issues like fogging, drafts, or loose trim, it’s important to take action promptly. Addressing these problems quickly can help you save money, ensure your home remains safe, and restore your peace of mind.
Contact Advantage Construction right away to set up a free inspection of your storm-damaged windows. People all over Minnesota know us for our speedy intervention, expert service, and trusted partnerships with homeowners dealing with insurance claims and recovery after a storm. We can help you stay safe, prepared, and comfortable all year.
