How to Spot Window Frame Warping After Summer Heat Waves

Window frames keep our home sealed, your energy bills steady, and your comfort levels where you want them. But Colorado summers can be tough on them. At Lomax Window & Door, we see the results of long heat waves every year. With our window installation, window restoration, and window upgrades, we help homeowners address damage before it grows into a bigger problem. The first step is spotting the early signs.

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Close-up photo of a home window frame corner with a small visible gap between the frame and siding

Watch for Subtle Bending or Gaps

Wood and vinyl frames can react differently to heat, but both can shift out of shape when exposed to high temperatures for weeks. Look along the frame edges for spots where the line isn’t straight or where a thin gap has opened between the frame and wall. These gaps may seem small, but they can let in moisture and outside air.

a homeowner’s hand struggling to slide open a double-hung window

Sticking or Difficulty Opening

When a frame warps, the window sash might not slide or swing as easily as before. If you have to put in extra effort to open or close the window, that could be the frame shifting. This strain can also damage hardware while making it an irritant to use.

photo of cracked white window caulk along the edge of a wood frame

Cracks in the Finish or Caulk

Heat can make caulk brittle and finishes crack. Over time, this leads to small splits where water can sneak in. Even hairline cracks along the edges are worth checking after hot weather, especially if you’ve had direct afternoon sun on that side of the house.

window with visible moisture trapped between double-pane glass, warm light from outside highlighting the fogginess

Condensation Between Panes

While condensation often comes from seal failure, warped frames can also stress the glass and break the seal. If you notice fog or moisture between double-pane glass after a hot spell, the frame’s shape may be part of the problem.

Late summer nights in Colorado can be cool, which makes them perfect for finding air leaks. Run your hand along the edges of closed windows and see if you feel a temperature change. A warped frame can make the seal uneven, and you’ll notice it more when the indoor and outdoor air temperatures are different.

Heat waves can be hard on more than your air conditioning bill. If your windows show signs of bending, cracking, or leaking air, Lomax Window & Door can help. From the best window replacements to careful window restoration and window upgrades, we make sure your frames are ready for every season. Contact us before the fall rush so you can enjoy the cooler days without drafts sneaking in.

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