How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
A storm that is severe or a rock dropped by the lawnmowers or an accident at home could cause cracks in your windows. You may be able make do with temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman of Anne Arundel & North PG professional comes to fix the damage.
A clear packing tape or masking tape will keep superficial cracks, such as spider cracks, from escalating. Make sure you tape both sides of the crack.
Frames that are rotten
The rot of wood around windows is not just unsightly, but it can be a security risk. It can also lower the insulation value of a house. Rotted frames allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, which costs you money. The wood that is rotting allows moisture into the frame and causes it to weaken. This reduces the frame's capacity to keep the temperature or cool inside your home.
In addition, a weakened window frame will leave your home vulnerable to intruders who can easily break through the window and gain access to the inside of your home. Rebuilding and fixing your wooden windows can help prevent this kind of damage, making your home more secure and appealing.
It is crucial to repair your window sills or frames made of wood as soon as you can and before the problem gets worse. The first indication of rot is usually visible cracks or discolorations within the paint. The more advanced signs of rotting may include a softer feel to the wood, or a buildup of mold on the inside of the window frames.
If you experience any of these issues it is essential to seek out an expert to assess the damage and fix it as soon as you can. Wood rot is a fast-growing issue, so the sooner you deal with it, the less costly and less difficult to repair. If you wait until all the wood has rotted away, it is impossible to fix.
Fortunately, rotting window frames and sills can be fixed in 95% of the cases where the rot is caught early. Our experienced and skilled technicians can replace the damaged areas of the frame, resulting in windows that are as like new.
Muntins and Mullions
The mullions and muntins which divide your window panes aren't just decorative they also help to support the glass. They are a common component of windows that could be damaged or even broken. It does not matter if they're fake, real or both, but when your mullions or muntins are chipped, cracked or damaged, it is crucial to repair them. They can make your home appear less attractive.
Muntins & Mullions
While they look similar and are often mistaken with one another (perhaps the alliteration aids) Multins and mullions are two distinct window components. A reputable window installation company explains the differences between them to avoid miscommunication and confusion.
Mullions, or dividers between glass panes, are a common feature in traditional multi-pane windows. In the past they were used to provide a support and to separate large sheets. Nowadays, they are an ornamental and design element that gives an elegant look to your home.
Although mullions aren't the strongest part of your window, they do provide some security. If a burglar damages the window pane then he'll probably break the mullion to gain entry to your home.
Broken mullions and muntins can be fixed with putty. Window repair experts clean the surface, apply new putty, and then secure them back in place. This is an easy repair that won't alter the functionality of your window.
There may be problems with the frame or sashes in the event that your windows leak or don't close and open properly. In some instances, the sashes may be stuck in their frames because of broken cords or springs. They may also be too heavy, or have fallen off the track. A sash that is hard to raise or lower can be repaired by balancing springs and weights.
The wood strips that hold a single pane of glass in place on an older window are referred to as muntins or mullions. If they start to rot and become damaged, you'll need to rebuild them. Window repair experts will replace rotted muntins and mullions, without affecting the functionality of your windows.
One of the most common issues with old windows is the sill, which might not slope enough downward to let water drain away. Check the sill to make sure that it is sloping away from the house. If it does not the drip cap can easily be installed. This simple task can reduce the chance of moisture infiltration.
Sashes
If your window sashes aren't functioning correctly, it is important to look into the issue. Wooden window sashes can be easily affected by changes in weather and the passing of time. If they do not open properly, air or water can easily enter the room. A similar event can cause aluminum sashes to become unsuitable. Sweating and dampness around windows are common symptoms of these problems.
Most of the time, sash issues are the result of simple wear and tear. They can be fixed by filling and sanding the area, then re-painting. However, more serious problems may require the dismantling of the sash. This should be left to window repair professionals.
The sash is disassembled by taking the locking pins off the top of the window frame and taking off the sash cords. Then, remove the parting bead (vertical strips that hold the upper window sash). Then, pull out the upper window sash. Once the sash has been removed, you can take it off and store the hardware of the sash.
The mortise-and tenon joints are held together by wooden pegs. Take the pegs off using a hammer and pin punch. Most of the time, one side of the peg is bigger than the other, and should be driven away from the smaller side to avoid damaging the sash.
When the sash has been completely removed, you'll be able see the pockets that hold the glass panes. These pockets are usually pinned or screwed into place and must be gently pulled out using a sharp knife.
After the pockets have been removed, the sash can be re-bedded in a new glaze compound. The artist beds the sash by placing it up against a homemade easel, and then working the compound into the groove or rabbet around the opening of the pane. The sash must be allowed to dry for a minimum of two days before it can be put back together. The sash will then be treated with homemade wood preserver made by mixing mineral spirits and boiled oils from linseed. This can help reduce the amount of draughts and improve the ability to shut and open the window.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are simple, almost invisible caps that redirect rainwater away from window frames during a storm. They are often constructed from wood, but they can also be made from brick or another type of brick. Some drip caps are designed to look attractive and others have a more utilitarian appearance. Regardless of design, a quality drip cap ought to be able to withstand the elements and prevent water from leaking behind the casings, which could cause wood decay.
With just a few tools and a little knowledge, a drip cap can easily be installed by a home owner. However most homeowners prefer having an expert contractor install their drip cap. A drip cap should be secured to the sheathing around the window, at least one inch from the trim board and should be sloping away from the window. Use galvanized nails and apply an exterior grade, high-quality sealant to the underside of the sheathing and drip cap.
Drip caps are available preformed from most home improvement stores and window retailers or homeowners can make them at home with an aluminum sheet, a vice and some basic tools. To make them homeowners must first take off or cut a row of siding above the window, and then cut a drip cap to a length slightly larger than the window. After the drip cap has been cut, it is slipped under the tape and secured with galvanized nails to the sheathing. The cap must be nailed on both ends and firmly secured to the sheathing.