How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
A bad storm or a stone thrown by the lawnmower or an accident at home can leave your windows with cracks. It is possible to manage with temporary fixes until an Mr. Handyman from Anne Arundel and North PG professional can come to fix the damage.
The use of clear packing tape or masking tape can prevent superficial cracks such as spider cracks from getting worse. Tape both sides of the crack.
Frames that are Rotted
Wood rot around your windows is not only unsightly however, it could be a security risk. It can also lower the insulation value of a home. Frames that are rotten permit cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, costing you money. This is because decaying wood allows moisture to enter and weaken the interior frame, reducing its ability to keep heat or cool air in your home.
Additionally, a weak window frame leaves your home vulnerable to burglars who are able to easily break the window to gain access to your home's interior. Rebuilding and fixing your wooden windows will prevent this type of damage, and make your home more secure and appealing.
It is crucial to repair your wooden window frames or sills as soon as possible to prevent the issue from getting worse. Typically, the first sign of rot is visible cracks in your paint or spots of discoloration on the wood. The wood might feel soft or mold may form on the inside of window frames.
If you notice any of these signs, it is imperative to contact an expert to examine the damage and repair it as soon as you can. Wood rot can spread quickly and the earlier you deal with it, the less expensive and easier it will be to fix. In reality, if we do not address the issue until the wood is completely rotted, it will be impossible to fix.
Fortunately, rotting window frames and sills can be fixed in 99% of cases where the rot is detected early. Our technicians are highly skilled and are able to repair the rotting parts of the frame to give windows that look as new.
Muntins and Mullions
The mullions and muntins that create a barrier between your window panes isn't just ornamental, they also serve to support the glass. They are a typical component of windows that could be damaged or broken. No matter if they're real or faux, when your mullions and muntins get damaged, chipped or damaged, it is crucial to have them repaired, as they can be a major detriment to the appearance of your home.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they appear similar and are often confused for each other (perhaps the alliteration helps) muntins and mullions are two distinct window components. A reputable window installation company will explain the distinctions between them to avoid miscommunication and confusion.
Mullions or dividers are typical in multi-paned windows. In the past they were used to provide an aid in separating large sheets. They are now an attractive and stylish element that provides an elegant look to your home.
Although mullions aren't the strongest part of your window, they do offer some security. If a burglar is able to break a window pane and breaks it, he'll likely cut the mullion in order to gain access to your home.
Putty can be used to repair damaged mullions and muntins. Window repair specialists clean the surface and apply new putty before resecuring the mullions and muntins. This is a straightforward window repair that shouldn't affect the performance of your window.
If your windows are leaking or aren't closing properly, there may be issues with the sashes or frame. In some instances, the sashes may be stuck in their frames due to broken cords or springs. The sashes could also be too heavy or they could have come off the track. Rebalancing springs and weights can help a sash that is hard to lower or raise.
If you have an older window with a single-pane of glass, the wood strips that keep the glass in place are called muntins or mullions. If they rot, you will need to rebuild them. Window repair experts can replace rotten muntins and the mullions with no impact on the function of your windows.
One of the most frequent issues with old windows is the sill, which might not slope downward enough to allow water to drain off. It is essential to inspect the sill and make sure that it slopes downwards, away from the home. If it doesn't it is possible to install a new drip cap. can be put in place. It's an easy task that can greatly reduce the chances of water infiltration.
Sashes
If your window sashes have stopped functioning properly, it's vital to examine the situation. The weather and the time can affect wooden window sashes. When they do not open properly, air or water can quickly get into the room. Aluminum sashes can be ineffective due to similar incidents. The dampness and sweating around windows are typical signs of these issues.
The most common cause for issues with sash is simple wear and tear. They can often be corrected by filling, sanding and re-painting. More serious issues may require the disassembly. This is best left to window repair professionals.
The sash is disassembled by removing the locking pins from the top of the window frame and remove the sash cords. Then, remove the parting bead (vertical strips holding the upper window sash). Finally take out the upper window sash. After the sash is removed, it is possible to remove and store the hardware of the sash.
The mortise and tenon joints in the sash are joined by wooden pegs. Remove the pegs with pin punches and hammers. The pegs are usually larger on one side than the other. Remove the pegs on the smaller end to avoid damaging the sash.
There are pockets in which the glass panes are held after the sash has been completely removed. These pockets are often screwed or pinned into place. They are to be gently cut with a sharp blade.
Once pockets are removed, the sash can be bedded in a new glazing compound. The person who is beding the sash by putting it against a homemade easel and working the compound into the groove or rabbet, around the pane's opening. The sash needs to dry for at least two days before it can be reassembled. The sash is then treated with a homemade wood preservative made by mixing one-half mineral spirits with one-half boiling linseed oil. This will decrease the amount of draughts, and improve the ability of the window to be shut and opened.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are simple, almost invisible caps that draw water away from window frames during a storm. They are typically made of wood, although they may also be created out of brick or a different type of brick. Some drip caps sport an attractive appearance, while others are more functional. Regardless of design, a good quality drip cap should be strong enough to withstand the elements and keep water from leaking behind the casings, which could cause wood decay.
With just a few tools, and a bit of know-how, a drip cap can easily be installed by a home owner. Many homeowners choose to hire a contractor to install their drip cap. A drip cap should be nailed around a window at least one inch away from the trim board and it should slope away from the window. Use galvanized nails and apply a high-quality exterior grade sealant to the underside of both the sheathing and drip cap.
Drip caps can be purchased preformed from most home improvement stores and window retailers homeowners can make them at home using a sheet of aluminum, a vice and some simple tools. To do this the homeowner has to first remove or pry up a row above the window. Then, they'll be able to cut the drip-cap to a length that is slightly larger than the width of the window. Once the drip cap has been cut, it should be slipped beneath the flashing tape and secured to the sheathing using galvanized nails. The cap must be secured on both ends and firmly attached to the sheathing.