How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
Cracks in your windows can result from a violent storm, a lawnmower throwing rocks or a collision. You may be able make do with temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman from Anne Arundel & 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.
Frames that are Rotted
The rot on windows’ wood isn’t just a visual nuisance and a danger to safety and a potential safety hazard, it also decreases the insulation value of your home. Frames that are rotten permit cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, costing you money. The wood that is rotting allows moisture to enter the frame and causes it to weaken. This decreases the frame’s capacity to keep heat or cool in your home.
A frayed window frame could also make your home vulnerable to burglars who will be in a position to easily break the window repairs near me and gain entry to your home’s interior. This kind of damage can be prevented by repairing and re-building your wooden windows. Your home will look more attractive and secure.
When your wooden window sills and frames are rotten, it’s essential to fix them as soon as possible prior to the problem spreading. The first sign of rot will be visible cracks or discolorations of the paint. The wood may feel soft or mold may develop on the inside of window frames.
If you notice any of these issues, it is imperative to seek out a professional to inspect the damage and fix it as soon as you can. Wood rot can spread quickly, so the sooner you address it, the less expensive and easier it will be to fix. In reality, if you wait until the wood is completely rotten, it will be impossible to repair.
In 95% of cases frames and sills that are rotting are repairable If the rot is caught early enough. Our skilled and experienced technicians can replace the areas that are rotting on the frame, leaving you with windows that are as fresh as new.
Muntins and Mullions
The muntins or mullions between your window panes serve as more than just decorative elements. They also serve to support the glass. They are a typical part of windows that can be damaged or broken. Whether they are real or faux, when your muntins and mullions become damaged, chipped, or dented it is imperative to repair them, since they can be a major detriment from the overall appearance of your home.
Muntins & Mullions
While they look similar and are often mistaken for one another (perhaps the alliteration can help) Multins and mullions are two different window components. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation company will clarify the differences between these two parts.
Mullions, also known as partitions between glass panes are a common feature in traditional multi-pane windows. In the past, they were used to help support and separate large sheets of glass. Nowadays, they are an ornamental and design element that can give an elegant look to your home.
The mullions of your windows may not be the strongest part but they do provide some security. If a thief breaks one of your window panes they’ll likely break the mullion as well to gain entry into your home.
Putty can be used to repair damaged mullions or muntins. Window repair experts clean the surface apply new putty and then secure them back in place. This is a relatively easy window repair and should not interfere with the functioning of your windows.
If your windows are leaking or aren’t closing properly, there may be issues with the sashes or frames. In certain cases, the sashes are stuck in their frames due to broken springs or cords. The sashes might also be too heavy or they may have fallen off the track. A sash that is difficult to raise or lower is usually repaired by balancing springs and weights.
If you have an older window with a single-pane of glass the wood strips that hold the glass in place are known as muntins or mullions. If they start to decay they must be rebuilt. Window repair specialists can replace the muntins or mullions, and they won’t interfere with the functionality of your windows.
The sills of older windows may not slope enough to allow water drainage. It is important to examine the sill and ensure that it slopes downwards away from the home. If it doesn’t the drip cap can easily be put in place. This simple task can reduce the chance of water infiltration.
Sashes
If your window sashes are not functioning properly, it’s vital to look into the issue. Wooden windows sashes can be affected by weather changes and the passage of time. If they don’t open correctly, air or water can easily enter the room. Similar events can cause aluminum sashes to become ineffective. Sweating and dampness around the windows are common signs of these issues.
The most common cause of sash issues is simple wear and tear. They can usually be fixed by filling the sash, sanding and re-painting. However, more serious problems will require the removal of the sash. This is a task best left to professional window repair companies.
The sash is disassembled by removing the locking pins from the top of the window frame and taking off the sash cords. Then, take off the parting beads (vertical strips holding the upper window sash). Then, pull out the upper window sash. Once the sash has been removed, it is possible to remove and store the sash hardware.
The mortise and the tenon joints of the sash are held by wooden pegs. Remove the pegs with a hammer and pin punch. The pegs are usually larger on one side than on the other. Take the pegs from the smaller end in order to avoid damaging the sash.
You can see the pockets where the glass panes are held once the sash has been completely removed. These pockets are often fixed by screws or pins. They should be gently prised with a sharp blade.
The sash is now ready to be coated with new compound. The artist beds the sash by putting it against a homemade easel, and then working the compound into the groove, or rabbet, around the pane’s opening. Once the sash is bedded it is left to dry for two days before being reassembled. The sash will then be treated with a homemade wood preserver made by mixing mineral spirits and boiled oils from linseed. This will decrease the amount of that draughts are emitted, and increase the ability of the window to be shut and opened.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are simple, virtually invisible caps that redirect rainwater away from window frames in a storm. They are typically made of wood, although they may also be created from brick or another form of brick. Some drip caps sport a decorative appearance, while others are more functional. Whatever the design, a quality drip cap must be strong enough to withstand the elements and prevent water from seeping behind casings, where it can cause wood rot.
With a few simple tools and a little knowledge, a drip-cap can be easily installed by a homeowner. However, many homeowners prefer having an expert contractor install their drip cap. The drip cap should be affixed to the sheathing surrounding the window at least one inch away from trim board and it should slope away from the window. It is essential to use galvanized nails, and to apply a high-quality exterior grade sealant to the underside of the drip cap as well as the sheathing.
Homeowners can make drip caps at home with a sheet aluminum with a vice, a few simple tools. To make them the homeowner has to first remove or pry up the top row of the window. Then, they can cut a drip-cap to a length that is a bit larger than the width of the window. After the drip cap has been cut, it is slipped under the tape and secured using galvanized nails to the sheathing. The cap should be nailed at both ends and attached to the sheathing.