10 Healthy Windows Repair Habits
How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
Cracks in your windows can result from a violent storm, a lawnmower throwing a rock or an accident. You might be able to get by with some temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman from Anne Arundel and North PG professional arrives to repair the damage.
The use of clear packing tape or masking tape can prevent superficial cracks such as spider cracks from getting worse. Make sure you tape both sides of the crack.
Rotted Frames
The rot of wood around windows is not just unsightly however, it could be a security risk. It can also lower the insulation value of a home. Frames that are damaged by rot can allow cold air into your home and warm air out, which can cause you to lose money. The reason for this is that the decaying wood allows moisture penetrate and degrade the inner frame, decreasing its capacity to keep cool or warm air inside your home.
A frayed window frame could also expose your home to burglars who are in a position to easily break the window and gain entry to your home's interior. Rebuilding and fixing your wooden windows can help prevent this type of damage, and make your home more secure and appealing.
It is essential to fix your window sills or frames made of wood as soon as you can, before the problem gets worse. Often, the first sign of rot will be visible cracks in your paint, or spots of discoloration on the wood. The more advanced signs of rotting may be a softer feeling to the wood, or a buildup of mold on the inside of your window frames.
It is essential to call an expert as soon as you notice any of the above issues. Wood rot can spread quickly and the sooner you deal with it, the less costly and easier it will be to repair. In reality, if we wait until the wood is completely rotted, it will be impossible to repair.
In 95% of cases, rotting frames and sills are repairable if the rot is detected early enough. Our experienced and skilled technicians can repair the areas that are rotting on the frame, leaving you with windows that are as good as new.
Muntins & Mullions
The muntins or mullions between your upvc window repairs panes function as more than simply decorative elements. They also support the glass. They are a common component of a window to be damaged or broken. It doesn't matter if they are real, faux or a combination of both, If your mullions, muntins, or mullions are chipped, cracked or scratched, it's important to have them fixed. They can make your home look less attractive.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they may look like they do, and are often mistaken for one another (perhaps the alliteration can be helpful) muntins, mullions and mullions are different window components. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation company will clarify the distinctions between these two parts.
Mullions, also known as partitions between glass panes are a common component in traditional multi-pane windows. In the past, they were used to help support and separate large sheets of glass. They are a decorative element and design for your home.
While mullions aren't the most secure part of your window, they do offer some security. If a burglar damages one of your window panes, he or she will likely also break the mullion to get into your home.
Muntins and mullions that are damaged can be fixed with putty. Window repair specialists clean the surface apply new putty and re-secure them in place. This is a fairly simple window repair (Full Article) and should not interfere with the functioning of your windows.
If your windows are leaky or aren't closing correctly, there could be problems with the sashes or frame. Some sashes get stuck in the frames due to broken cords or springs. They may be too heavy or have fallen off the track. Rebalancing springs and weights can help a sash that is hard to raise or lower.
The wood strips that hold a single pane of glass in position on a window that is older are referred to as muntins or mullions. If they start to rot, you will need to rebuild them. Window repair professionals can replace the damaged muntins or mullions and they won't hinder the functionality of your windows.
One of the most frequent problems with old windows is the sill, which may not be sloped enough to let water drain away. It is crucial to look at the sill and ensure that it slopes downwards away from the home. If it doesn't then a drip cap could easily be installed. This simple step can decrease the chance of moisture infiltration.
Sashes
If window sashes don't function properly, it's time for an in-depth look at the situation. The weather and the time can have a direct impact on wooden window sashes. If they don't open properly, water or air can easily enter the room. Similar events could cause aluminum sashes to become ineffective. The presence of damp or sweat on windows is a typical sign of these issues.
Most often sash problems are caused by simple wear and tear. They can be corrected by sanding and filling the area, then re-painting. However, more serious issues will require the removal of the sash. This is a task best left to professional window repair companies.
Disassembly of the sash begins by removing the locking pins from the top of the window frame and taking off the sash cords. Then, remove the parting beads (vertical strips holding the upper window sash). Finally take out the upper window sash. Once the sash is free you can take it off the hardware for the sash and store it in a safe location.
The mortise and tenon joints are held together by wooden pegs. Remove the pegs using a hammer and pin punch. The pegs are often larger on one side than on the other. Remove the pegs from the smaller end to avoid damaging the sash.
After the sash is fully disassembled you will be able to see the pockets that support the glass panes. These pockets are often fixed by screws or pins. They are to be gently cut with a sharp blade.
The sash is then ready to be coated with a new compound. The person who wrote the book beds the sash using an easel that is made from scrap wood, securing it against the easel while working the compound into the shape of a rabbet or groove around the pane opening. The sash should be allowed to dry for at least two days before it can be reassembled. The sash will then be treated with homemade wood preserver made using a mix of mineral spirits and boiled linseed oils. This can help reduce the amount of draughts that enter and increase the ability to close and open the window.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are simple, virtually invisible caps that divert rainwater away from window frames in a storm. They are typically made from wood, but they could also be constructed of bricks or other masonry materials. Some drip caps are designed with aesthetic appeal, whereas others are more utilitarian. A good quality drip cap is able to resist the elements, and prevent water from leaking into the casings that could cause wood rot.
With a few basic tools, and some knowledge, a drip-cap can be easily installed by a home owner. However, many homeowners prefer to have a professional contractor install their drip cap. A drip cap must be nailed around the window, at least an inch away from the trim board and it should slope away from the window. It is crucial to use galvanized nails, and to apply a premium exterior grade sealant to the underside of the drip cap and the sheathing.
Drip caps can be bought preformed from most home improvement stores and window retailers, or a homeowner can make them at home using an aluminum sheet with a vice and a few basic tools. To do this the homeowner should first remove or pry off a row of siding above the window and then cut a drip cap to a length that is slightly larger than the window. After the drip cap is cut, it's slipped under the tape, and then nailed with galvanized nails onto the sheathing. The cap must be nailed at both ends and fixed to the sheathing.