St. Louis weather is unpredictable. Leave your house shivering in a winter jacket, and you could find yourself sweating in a t-shirt by lunch. While you might have gotten used to the temperature changes, your windows may not be ready for the drama. As we continue on through these indecisive months, it’s important to make sure your windows are prepared!
What Causes Cracks?
There are a few reasons why a window might crack. For starters, older, single-pane windows have a greater tendency to develop a thermal stress crack when the outside temperature varies greatly from the inside. Larger windows, especially those that receive an uneven amount of shade, can also be subject. This is due to the sun warming only part of the window, causing the glass to reach different temperatures across the surface.
How to Prevent Cracking
The best way to prevent cracking in older windows is to weather-proof. Applying a v-seal weather strip will allow you to open and close the window as needed while also providing some insulation. If you want an extra layer of protection, add caulk. Running a line of exterior-grade caulk on the outside perimeter of your window will help keep the outside elements from messing with your glass.
When it comes to cracks caused by inconsistent levels of exposure, look for sources that are throwing shade at your window. Get rid of any awnings that might shield only a partial amount of glass, and trim tree branches and hedges that are blocking the sun.
Unfortunately, cracks can still happen. If the unpredictable weather has got you down, contact us at St. Louis Glass Works. We’re here to meet all your commercial and residential needs. We can provide a free quote and make sure your windows are ready for the next round of whatever Missouri throws at it!