Window Failures

{"time":1691640323548,"blocks":[{"id":"yIDPG9BNyG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Windows serve as a vital element in a home's composition, yet they remain susceptible to wear and tear induced by age, weather conditions, manufacturing imperfections, and subpar installation. Failures in windows can give rise to significant dysfunctions within a residence's interior and exterior, especially concerning water infiltration. This intrusion can inflict harm upon the window's frame, the interior drywall, and even the structural framework of the home itself. In the aftermath of a window failure, comprehending the underlying causes is pivotal for effective restoration and preemptive measures against future losses."}},{"id":"8frLdrtcbm","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Hail and Wind The impact of hail and wind damage varies across different components of windows. Hail can cause harm to window cladding, frames, or glass surfaces. Common effects encompass dents in metal cladding, fractures in vinyl cladding, tears in window screens, or abrasions in wooden constituents. Notably, large hail may induce dents in metal window frames. Unless these dents disrupt the window's operational functionality, the harm is primarily cosmetic. Additionally, sizeable hail can shatter glass panes."}},{"id":"BTZ3cP_SsW","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Wind, on the other hand, can lead to functional damage such as broken glass, often resulting from windborne debris, or dislodged window units. Wind pressure can compromise the seals of double-paned windows, leading to insulation loss. Double-paned windows entail two glass panes separated by an air gap. When the windows are compromised, humid air infiltrates the gap, causing condensation commonly described as fogging. Many of these consequences can contribute to water penetration within the wall cavity and the structural framing of the residence."}},{"id":"PWq1MTN1MQ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"While certain instances may clearly associate a loss with a weather event, astute investigators possess the ability to ascertain the full extent of a failure. For instance, a property impacted by a Category 4 hurricane with wind speeds approximating 155 miles per hour exhibited damage, including a porch blown away, tree destruction, and roof perforation. Despite the absence of cracked sealants in the interior framework, discernible drywall cracks and impediments in window operation were evident. The exterior sealant, around 12 years old, displayed age-related cracks."}},{"id":"BB4qhzgvGx","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A comprehensive scientific assessment revealed two windows with superficial dents, seven window screens damaged by windborne debris, and three windows impacted by high winds. This insight empowered the homeowner to make an informed decision about the necessary steps for restoring their dwelling."}},{"id":"-hAK56UQyz","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Age-Related Damage The passage of time can also exact a toll on windows. Sealants deteriorate and crack over years, offering avenues for water infiltration if left unrepaired. Unpainted wooden window framing, when subjected to moist conditions, becomes susceptible to rot. Both wooden and aluminum window frameworks expand and contract with temperature fluctuations, potentially creating opportunities for water intrusion. The glass itself may expand during warm periods and contract in cold weather, resulting in eventual fractures. In double-paned windows, this repetitive movement can compromise the seals between the panes, culminating in window fogging."}},{"id":"ZW5gBeYVeg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Experienced investigators leverage their expertise to deduce the root causes of failures. A homeowner's report of fogged double-paned windows, occurring 19 years after installation, following a power-washing event, prompted a meticulous analysis. The home's wooden shingle exterior tightly pressed against the windows' trim work, rendering any substantial movement improbable. Elevated moisture levels were not evident around the windows' interior. The bulk of the condensation clustered near the metal spacers. The expert concluded that this deterioration correlated with age-related deterioration of the window seals."}},{"id":"qMFPmmA87f","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Manufacturing and Installation It may not be immediately apparent to homeowners, but windows can harbor issues from the outset. Manufacturing defects, while infrequent due to highly controlled production environments, do manifest. A paramount concern for manufacturers revolves around maintaining robust seals to prevent water infiltration. In the case of double-hung windows, the upper and lower sashes may lack a secure seal at their midpoint convergence. Leaks can also emerge around joinery seals where side rails intersect miter joints, forming corners. However, complications are more prone to arise during installation in real-world settings. Inadequately mounted windows can facilitate water penetration. Crucially, corrosion-resistant flashing must accompany every exterior window installation. This flashing serves to divert water away from the home, safeguarding against intrusion into wall cavities and framing components. Substandard or absent flashing can divert water inward, rather than keeping it at bay."}},{"id":"1g20LzvIwg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Inspection Solutions Alpine Intel's proficient window assessment team offers actionable insights through conclusive evaluations of window failures. This empowers our clients with the certainty needed to chart the way forward, all the while upholding policyholder contentment."}}],"version":"2.27.2"}

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Window Failures

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