How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
A storm that is severe, a rock that is thrown by a lawnmower or a mishap at home could leave your windows with cracks. You may be able to make do with a few temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman of Anne Arundel and North PG professional can come to fix the damage.
The use of clear masking tape or packing tape can stop superficial cracks, such as spider cracks, from becoming worse. Be sure to tape both sides of the crack.
Frames that are rotten
Wood rot around your windows is not just unsightly however, it could be a security risk. It can also decrease the insulation value of a house. Frames that are damaged by rot can allow cold air in your home and warm air out, which can cause you to lose money. This is because decaying wood allows moisture enter and weaken the interior frame, decreasing its capacity to keep the cool or warm air in your home.
A weak window frame can also make your home vulnerable to burglars who are able to easily break the window and gain entry to your home's interior. Rebuilding and repairing wooden windows will prevent this kind of damage, and make your home more secure and appealing.
It is essential to fix your wooden window frames or sills in the earliest time possible, before the problem gets worse. The first sign of rot will be visible cracks or discolorations of the paint. More advanced signs of rotting may include a softer feel to the wood, or a buildup of mold on the interior of your window frames.
It is essential to call an expert when you spot any of the above issues. Wood rot spreads rapidly and the earlier it is dealt with, the cheaper and easier it will cost to fix. In fact, if you do not address the issue until the wood is completely rotten, it will be impossible to repair.
In 95% of cases frames and sills that have rotted can be repaired if the rot is detected early enough. Our experienced and skilled technicians can repair the damaged areas of the frame, leaving you with windows as like new.
Muntins and Mullions
The mullions or muntins between the panes of your windows serve as more than just decorative elements. They also help support the glass. They are a typical part of windows that can be damaged or broken. It is not a matter of whether they are real, faux or a combination of both, if your muntins or mullions are chipped, cracked or scratched, it's crucial to repair them. They can make your home appear less appealing.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they might appear similar, and are often mistaken for one another (perhaps the alliteration can be helpful), mullions & muntins are two distinct components of a window. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation company will explain the differences between these two parts.
Mullions or dividers are common in multi-paned windows. In the past, they were utilized to support and separate large sheets of glass. They are now an ornamental and design element that can give an elegant look to your home.
Although mullions may not be the most durable part of your window, they provide some security. If a burglar damages one of your window panes he or she will likely smash the mullion too to get into your home.
Muntins and mullions that are damaged can be repaired with putty. Window repair specialists clean the surface and apply fresh putty before re-securing them. This is a straightforward repair to your window that won't impact the performance of your window.
There could be a problem with the frames or sashes if the windows leak or don't open and close properly. In certain instances, the sashes get stuck in their frames because of broken springs or cords. They could also be too heavy or have been thrown off the track. A sash that is difficult to raise or lower is usually repaired by balancing the weights and springs.
The wood strips that hold a single piece of glass in the window of an older one are referred to as muntins or mullions. If they begin to decay and become damaged, you'll need to replace them. Window repair specialists can replace rotten muntins and mullions, without affecting the functionality of your windows.
One of the most frequent problems with windows that are old is the sill, which might not be sloped enough to let water drain away. Check the sill to make sure that it slopes away from the home. If it isn't then a new drip cap can be put in place. This simple step can decrease the likelihood of moisture infiltration.
Sashes
If window sashes aren't functioning properly, it's time to take an examination of the situation. The weather and the time can easily affect wooden window sashes. If they are not opened correctly, air or water can easily enter the room. Aluminum sashes can become unsuitable due to similar events. Sweating or dampness on the windows is an indication of such problems.
Most often sash problems are the result of simple wear and tear. They can be fixed by filling and sanding the area, then re-painting. More serious issues will require the disassembly. This is best left to window repair professionals.
The sash is removed by first by removing the locking pins as well as the sash cords from the window frame. The next step is to remove the parting beads (vertical strips of wood that hold the upper sash) and then pull out the upper sash. When the sash is completely free, you can take it off the hardware that holds it and put it in a safe location.
The mortise-and-tenon joints are joined by wooden pegs. Take the pegs off using the hammer and pin. Most of the time, one side of the peg is more than the other and should be driven away from the smaller end to avoid causing damage to the sash.
There are pockets in which glass panes are secured after the sash is completely removed. These pockets are usually pinned or screwed into place and must be gently pulled out using a sharp knife.
Once the pockets are removed the sash is then able to be put in a new glaze compound. The artist beds the sash by putting it against an easel and then working the compound into the groove, or rabbet around the opening of the pane. The sash should be allowed to dry for a minimum of two days before it can be assembled. The sash will then be treated with a homemade wood preserver created from a mixture of mineral spirits and boiled linseed oils. This can help reduce the amount of draughts that enter and improve the ability to close and open the window.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are simple, almost imperceptible caps that divert water away from window frames during a storm. They are usually made of wood, but they can also be constructed from bricks or other masonry. Some drip caps are designed with a decorative appearance, while others are more practical. Regardless of design, a good quality drip cap ought to be able to withstand the elements and stop water from getting behind the casings, which can cause wood rot.
A drip cap can be installed by a homeowner with some basic tools and a little know-how. However most homeowners prefer having an expert contractor install their drip cap. The drip cap should be affixed to the sheathing surrounding windows at least an inch from the trim board, and then slope away from window. Use galvanized nails and apply an exterior grade, high-quality sealant on the bottom of both the drip cap and sheathing.
Homeowners can create drip caps at home with aluminum sheets, a vice, and a few basic tools. To make them, a homeowner must first remove or pry off a row of siding above the window and then cut the drip cap to a length slightly wider than the window. After the drip cap is cut, it should be placed beneath the flashing tape and attached to the sheathing using galvanized nails. The cap must be nailed on both ends and firmly secured to the sheathing.