Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Windows That Have Rotted?

Your home's rotting windows may be caused by various issues or can result from age and exposure to the elements. Outside window frames and walls are your first defense against the weather. If they are not regularly maintained, you will begin to notice visible signs of wear and tear.

Typically, homeowner's insurance will not cover the replacement of window frames that have decayed due to age or humidity issues, leaving the homeowner responsible for the replacement. Suppose you have protection against these types of water catastrophes. In that case, your insurance may cover window frames that have rotted as a result of a water leak or a broken pipe. This may not be the case with all policies. Certain policies will cover the pipe or location where the water leak occurred. Still, you will need to consult the policy's fine print to determine whether extended damage will be covered.

Why Do My Windows Have Rot?

Your windows are a gateway to the outside world. It allows sunlight and warmth while keeping out cold and insects. Your window frames provide protection against moisture, but that does not make them unbreakable. In contrast, if moisture is allowed to build up over time or to remain on the frames without drying, the repercussions will soon become apparent. If you have a leaking roof or a burst pipe in your walls, moisture accumulates around your windows. As a result, this can lead to rotting, and the root of the problem must be addressed before the damage can be repaired.

Typically, mold spots and damp patches are the first visible indications of a problem, but rotting window frames may not always exhibit such symptoms. Regular inspections can guarantee that any potential problems are identified before they do irreparable damage. Keep a sharp lookout for;

Wooden frames with a velvety texture. Wood should be solid and resilient; if it is spongy or yields to pressure, it has gotten overly saturated with moisture and must be replaced.
Peeling paint. As the wood fibers swell and contract, painted wood that has gotten oversaturated with moisture will have an uneven surface, resulting in flaking, peeling paint that is easier to detect.
There are spaces between the joints. If you observe a gap in the corners of your windows that is greater at the bottom than the top, the wood has been soaked and frozen.
Discoloration of picture frames Fungus, moss, and mold can all grow on window frames and create discoloration; this may not be seen from a distance, so inspect and clean your windows thoroughly between each season.
Deformations on the window ledge. A window sill is an area where water is prone to accumulate and will begin to warp if left untreated for too long. It is suggested that window sills be inspected more frequently, especially after heavy rain.

Typically, homeowners insurance protects against abrupt and accidental damage. It does not cover general deterioration that leads to structural issues such as decay. Even if the window rotted after a covered risk, such as a severe storm, your insurance company might deny coverage on the grounds that you were negligent. If you feel that a covered risk may have caused potential harm, have a trained professional conduct an inspection promptly. If there is damage, acquire a repair estimate to determine whether making a claim is worthwhile.