Keeping your home cool through rapidly changing weather

The Valley’s weather has been changing on the daily this April, with 90 degree summer heat one day, and low 60’s the next. These bipolar weather patterns can put quite a strain on your home as it tries to maintain your preferred temperatures.

One way to keep track of your home’s health is by checking areas that are at risk of airy leaks: specifically, your doors and windows.

“The exterior shell of your house is the biggest defense mechanism you have for paying utilities,” said Karen Kendall, the general manager at Lasting Impressions Window & Door. When those areas struggle, homeowners end up paying a lot more for utilities.

During times of cooler weather, materials such as wood, aluminum and vinyl, contract, which can lead to leaks, drafts, and warped frames. Moisture can also seep into these joints and freeze, which causes cracking or binding.

In the summer, intense heat can cause these materials to expand, which results in swelling, buckling, or sticking frames. UV rays also can cause fading.

Fluctuating temperatures can cause contraction and expansion, leading to warping. During rainy weather, water can infiltrate and cause wood rot, mold, and damage.

Signs of weather-induced damage:

· Sticking or hard to open doors and windows means the frames have either expanded or warped

· Drafts and air leaks are from gaps, which can cause higher energy bills

· Visible damage includes rotted wood, peeled paint, or cracked sealant

Some maintenance tips:

· Re-sealing and repair caulking and weatherstripping seasonally will stop air leaks

· Lubricate hinges and ensure locks fit properly

· Inspect the wood frames for soft spots, or rot, and repaint wood frames to repel moisture

· After heavy storms or summer heatwaves, have an expert inspect your doors and windows

Learn more about how to defend your home from fluctuating weather patterns today by visiting Lasting Impressions’ official website liwindow.com.

Office hours:

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Monday - Thursday 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Friday 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Saturday Closed Sunday 602-508-0800 sales@liwindow.com

4454 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix.