The snow is gone, the wind has calmed down (mostly), and your windows just survived another Eastern Washington winter. Before you slide into summer mode, give them this seven-point checkup — it takes about half an hour and catches problems while they are still small.

1. Open Every Window

Simple but revealing. Every window should open smoothly and stay open. Sticking, grinding, or a sash that slams shut means worn balances or a frame that has shifted — both fixable, both worth catching now.

2. Look for Fog Between Panes

Winter’s temperature swings are what kill window seals. Check each pane in morning light for haze or moisture between the glass layers. A failed unit will not get better — but often the glass alone can be replaced.

3. Inspect Sills for Water Damage

Press on interior sills and check for soft spots, bubbling paint, or staining — evidence that water got past the window during winter storms. Small leaks become rot by fall.

4. Check Screens Before Bug Season

Wind-whipped screens tear at the edges first. Re-screening now beats discovering the holes on the first warm evening with the windows open.

5. Examine Exterior Caulk and Paint

Walk the outside and look at the joint between window frames and siding. Cracked or pulling caulk lets in both water and hot summer air. Re-caulk in spring’s mild temps — caulk cures poorly in extreme heat.

6. Test the Locks

Locks pull sashes tight to seal. If any lock will not engage smoothly, the window is not sealing — and with AC season coming, that costs money.

7. Rate Each Room’s Winter Performance

While it is fresh: which rooms were cold all winter? Which windows dripped condensation daily? Write it down by room. That list is exactly what a smart, phased window upgrade is built from.

Found Problems? Get Ahead of the Rush

Spring is when everyone calls at once. If your checklist turned up failed seals or worse, schedule your free in-home assessment now and beat the summer backlog.

Ready for honest answers about your windows, doors, or glass? Schedule a free in-home estimate with our award-winning team. Call us in the Tri-Cities at (509) 586-1177, in Walla Walla at (509) 529-5110, or request your free estimate online.