1. Structural and Material Damage

• Wood Rot: Constant exposure to moisture causes wet or dry rot, resulting in soft, discolored, or crumbling timber—most commonly found on the lower sills and bottom corners of the frame.
• Cracking and Splitting: Weather fluctuations cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to splits, peeling paint, or separation at the frame joints.
• Warping: Excess moisture and prolonged sun exposure can cause the wood to twist or sag out of shape, which ruins the tight seal required for proper closure.
• Sticking or Jamming: Swelling wood, misaligned frames, or layers of built-up paint often cause windows to stick, making them difficult or impossible to open or close.
• Failed Balances or Counterweights: On older double-hung windows, internal mechanisms (like broken sash cords, chains, or rusted balances) fail, preventing the window from staying open.

2. Energy Loss

• Air Drafts: Deteriorated or missing weatherstripping allows outside air to leak in, directly driving up heating and cooling costs.
• Degraded Glazing Putty: The putty holding the glass panes in place dries out, cracks, and falls away, leading to water leaks and significant drafts.
• Condensation: Air leaks from inside or outside create trapped moisture, which degrades the wood and fog.

3. Hardware Failures

• Rusted or Loose Hardware: Hinges, locks, and handles can corrode or become loose over time, compromising the security and operability of the window.

4. Biological & Pest Damage

• Insect Infestation: Rotted or untreated wood attracts termites and carpenter ants, which can tunnel into the frame and cause severe structural compromises.
• Mold and Mildew: Moisture trapped in decaying wood leads to mold growth, which can cause health issues if left unchecked.