Caulk is applied to new energy efficient vinyl windows at a home. Photo by Ron Medvescek/Arizona Daily Star/ 2006

Q: I replaced my windows in the early 1990s with dual-pane windows that are still under warranty. The windows have argon gas between the panes and vinyl on the outside of the frames. Now the putty and vinyl are starting to disintegrate. What should I do?

A:Β Contact the manufacturer to see if they’ll live up to their warranty. However, I have to add that vinyl windows are not a favorite of mine for use in our desert climate.

My preference is wood with aluminum cladding on the outside. Vinyl windows have improved greatly over the years, however, and the latest models may perform more efficiently than those manufactured 10 to 20 years ago.

For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home building and remodeling industry expert for 25 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the syndicated Saturday morning Rosie on the House radio program, heard locally from 8-11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson and KGVY-AM (1080) and -FM (100.7) in Green Valley. Call 888-767-4348.


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