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As the weather warms up, many homeowners are eager to step outside and address any damage caused by the harsh winter months. Winter weather can take a toll on windows, especially older wood frames. If you’re noticing signs of wear and tear, it may be time to consider a spring window replacement guide to keep your windows in top shape for the season ahead. 

Whether you’re working with a local window installer or searching for a replacement window installer near me, this checklist will help you assess your windows and decide if window insulation installation or window installations are needed.

Table of Contents

Worn Down Window Frames

Close-up of a damaged window sill with peeling, chipped white paint and rotting wood next to red brick and a glass window—an issue often noted on any thorough window maintenance checklist.

Your window frames could be damaged by harsh weather, especially if they’re made of wood. Here are some warning signs that your frames may be compromised:

  • Rotten wood: If the wood feels soft and your screwdriver sinks in easily, the frame may be rotting.
  • Peeling or chipping: When wood and paint are peeling or chipping, it’s a sign that moisture has started to damage the surface.
  • Mold or mildew: If you notice mold or mildew, it could mean the wood has been exposed to moisture for too long.
  • Window leaks: Leaky windows often stem from damaged frames. If your windows are leaking, it could be a result of this kind of damage, and you may need leaky window repair.

Windows Won’t Easily Open & Close

A single, rectangular window with red shutters is partially open on a beige, horizontally-sided exterior wall—like a glimpse from a Spring Window Guide. The sky and tree branches are reflected in the glass.

When your windows are difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of wear or misalignment. Here are a few red flags to watch out for:

  • Sticky windows: Points to a potential problem with the frame or sash.
  • Windows that don’t stay open or closed: This indicates issues with the mechanism or seals, which may require assistance from a window contractor or window contractors in my area.

Window Locks are Malfunctioning

A close-up of a dusty wooden window frame with cobwebs, featuring an old metal latch and a small religious icon between the panes—an evocative scene for any Spring Window Guide. The lower part of the image shows a section of tiled wall.

Window locks are an important part of security and energy efficiency. If you notice any of these issues, it could be time to consider replacement:

  • Broken locks: If your window locks don’t engage or disengage properly, they may not be offering the security you need.
  • Loose locks: If the locks feel loose or don’t hold the window securely, they may be failing to reinforce the seal of the window, resulting in energy loss.


When you have issues with window security, it may be a good idea to consult a local window installer for an inspection.

Your Windows are Drafty

A blue sheer curtain billows inward through an open white-framed window. Both panels are open, sunlight streaming in and casting soft shadows on the pale wall—a perfect scene for any Spring Window Guide.

Drafty windows can lead to high energy bills and a cold, uncomfortable home. Watch for these warning signs:

  • Feeling drafts: If you can feel a breeze around the sash, sill, or where the sash meets the sill, your window may not be properly sealed.
  • Damaged weatherstripping: If the weatherstripping looks cracked, dried out, or droopy, it may no longer be creating a tight seal.
  • Increased energy bills: If you notice a rise in your heating or cooling costs, it could be a sign that your windows are allowing air to infiltrate. Window insulation installation could be needed to resolve the issue!

Your Windows are Foggy

A close-up of a window with water droplets and condensation on the glass, suggesting rainy or humid weather outside. The blurred background hints at seasonal changes, perfect for a Spring Window Guide.

Foggy windows may be more than just a cosmetic issue. If you notice the following, it could be a sign that your window’s seal is failing:

  • Persistent fog: When the fog doesn’t wipe away, this is an indication that the window’s seal has failed, and it may need to be replaced.
  • Condensation on the inside: Normal condensation wipes away easily. But if the fog remains, it’s a sign that the insulating glass unit has failed. This problem also allows moisture between the panes.

Wood Windows are a Pain to Maintain

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your windows. However, different window types require different levels of care. Wood windows may show signs of trouble more easily because they:

  • Rot and decay: Wood windows are prone to rot, especially in areas with high moisture exposure.
  • Require regular upkeep: If the windows need frequent staining, sanding, or painting, they may be a sign that they need to be replaced soon.
  • Suffer from structural issues: In worst-case scenarios, wood windows can develop major structural issues like rot that are expensive to repair.

Vinyl windows, on the other hand, require minimal maintenance

  • No peeling or chipping: Vinyl windows don’t need painting, so there’s no concern about chipping or peeling paint.
  • Occasional dirt buildup: Dirt may accumulate on the frames, but it can be easily wiped off with a vinegar-water mixture.
  • No structural issues: Vinyl windows don’t face the same risks for rot or decay, making them a more durable and hassle-free option.

Termite Damage

Close-up of a wooden window frame with severe termite damage. The wood is visibly decomposed and crumbling, revealing intricate patterns where termites have eaten through. This highlights the importance of including such checks in your window maintenance checklist as sunlight softly illuminates the damage.

Did you know that termites are the most active in the spring? They won’t hesitate to chew through the wood of old windows, depending on the species of termites that you have. There are several signs to consider when it comes to termite damage on your windows, including:

  • Window sills and sill plates with holes in them
  • Cracks in the window frame
  • A window frame that is twisted or bowed
  • Check for signs of warping on the wood
  • A mound of frass is present under the sill, indicating that you have subterranean termites
    An accumulation of mud around the exterior foundation of your home, since termites use mud to seal off their colonies


This damage is seasonal and can be quite prominent in the spring when termites are most active. They will chew through the wood of your old windows, which will be quite evident in the loss of paint on the window frames. Make sure that you don’t miss this important sign of an infestation!

Spring Window Replacement Guide: Say Goodbye to Window Maintenance for Good

If you’re tired of dealing with the upkeep of old windows, consider making the switch to replacement windows. Don’t let issues like leaky windows, drafts, or malfunctioning locks slow you down. If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, it could be time to reach out to a local window contractor for a professional evaluation. New replacement windows from Coastal Windows & Exteriors offer the best air infiltration ratings in the industry while exceeding Energy Star 7.0 standards! 

Contact us today for a quote on high-quality window installations and professional window replacement contractor services. You can also limited offers and spring promotions.

Say goodbye to constant repairs and enjoy your weekends without worrying about your windows.

Download Your Window Spring Guide