Excessive moisture can wreak all sorts of havoc on your home’s structure. It can stain, warp, soften or rot the wooden beams and trimmings in your home. However, perhaps one of its most common but least noticed consequences is swelling. When water molecules penetrate the wood in the frames of your windows or doors, they can cause the fibers to swell. The change is small, rarely exceeding a fraction of an inch, if at all, but, for a 100% sealed and airtight home, this is highly problematic.

Are Your Wooden Doors Swelling?

Wood swelling is most common in states with high humidity. Temperate climate in Illinois may not be too extreme, but the moisture levels in the air can still do some damage. Here are some quick solutions to minimize wood swelling problems in your home.

Dehumidify

It’s impossible to completely eliminate the daily activities that require water. Showering, cooking, doing the laundry - all these use water, and they can all increase the humidity in your home. Ventilate the areas where you expect to have the highest amount of water use, such as the kitchen and bathroom. This will not only protect your replacement windows and doors from swelling, but it can also minimize the condensation you get when the temperature changes.

Replacing the Culprits

In some areas, keeping moisture levels low can be a never-ending battle. If this is the case, consider replacing your doors and windows with fiberglass framing. Unlike wood, fiberglass does not experience swelling. This material is also known to be more durable and longer lasting than most other framing materials. Ask your contractor for fiberglass options next time you call them in for a service visit.

Keep your home safe and sound with Illinois Energy Windows & Siding, Inc., your trusted provider of superior door, siding and window installation, repair and replacement services. Call us at (630) 219-1860, or fill out our online contact form. Our representatives will be more than happy to schedule you an appointment for a free, no-obligation consultation. We serve the areas of Highland Park, Evanston and Park Ridge.