How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a severe storm, lawnmowers hurling a rock or an accident. You may be able to make do with a few temporary fixes until 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 stop superficial cracks, such as spider cracks, from getting more severe. Tape both sides of the crack.
Frames that are Rotted
The wood rot that surrounds your windows isn't just ugly, but it can be a security risk. It can also reduce the insulation value of a home. The frames that are rotten allow cold air to enter your home, and warm air to escape, which costs you money. The reason for this is that the rotting wood allows moisture to enter and weaken the interior frame, reducing its ability to hold cool or warm air in your home.
In addition, a weakened window frame can leave your home vulnerable to intruders who are able to easily break the window to gain access to your home's interior. Rebuilding and repairing your wooden windows will prevent this kind of damage, and make your home more secure and appealing.
If your window frames and sills are rotten, it's essential to have them repaired immediately, before the problem spreads. Typically, the first sign of rot is visible cracks in your paint, or spots of discoloration on the wood. The wood may appear soft or feel brittle, or mold could build up on the inside of the window frames.
If you are experiencing any of these issues you must seek out a professional to inspect the damage and fix it immediately. Wood rot can spread quickly, so the sooner you deal with it, the less expensive and less difficult to repair. In reality, if we delay until the wood has completely rotten, it will be impossible to repair.
Fortunately, window frames that are rotting and sills can be repaired in 95% of the cases when the rot is discovered early. Our skilled and experienced technicians can repair or replace the damaged areas of the frame, leaving you with windows that are as like new.
window repairs and Mullions
The mullions or muntins between your window panes serve as more than just decorative elements. They also support the glass. As such, they are an extremely common part of a window to become damaged or broken. Whether they are real or faux, when your mullions and muntins get damaged, chipped, or damaged, it is essential to repair them, as they can be a major hindrance from the overall appearance of your home.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they look similar, and are often mistaken for one another (perhaps the alliteration is helpful) Mullions, muntins and mullions are two distinct components of a window. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation firm will explain the distinctions between these two components.
Mullions, also known as dividers, are commonly seen in multi-paned windows. In the past they were used to provide support for the windows and also to separate large sheets. Today, they are an attractive and stylish element that gives a timeless appearance to your home.
The mullions of your windows aren't the strongest part, but they do offer some security. If a thief breaks one of your window panes, he or she will likely also break the mullion to gain entry into your home.
Putty can be used to fix damaged mullions and muntins. Window repair experts clean the surface, apply new putty, and then re-secure them. This is an easy repair to your window that won't impact the performance of your window.
If your windows are leaking or aren't closing properly, there may be issues with the sashes, or frame. Some sashes become stuck in frames because of broken cords or springs. They may also be too heavy or have fallen off the track. Balanced springs and weights can make a sash difficult to raise or lower.
If you have an older windows with only one pane of glass the wood strips that hold the glass in place are known as muntins or mullions. If these become rotting and need to be replaced, they should be rebuilt. Window repair experts can replace the muntins and mullions, and they won't interfere with the purpose of your windows.
The sills of old windows may not slope enough to allow for drainage of water. Check the sill to make sure that it slopes away from the house. If it doesn't, a new drip cap could be put in place. It's a simple procedure that can greatly minimize the possibility of moisture infiltration.
Sashes
If your window sashes aren't functioning properly, it's vital to investigate the issue. The weather and time can easily affect wooden window sashes. If they do not open correctly, air or water can enter the room quickly. Aluminum sashes may become unsuitable because of similar incidents. Sweating and dampness around the windows are common signs of these issues.
Most often, sash issues result from simple wear and tear. They can usually be fixed by filling, sanding and re-painting. More serious issues may require the disassembly. This should be left to window repair professionals.
The sash can be disassembled by first taking the locking pins off and the sash cords from the window frame. Then, remove the parting beads (vertical strips that hold the upper window sash). Finally remove the upper window sash. After the sash is removed, you can remove and store the hardware of the sash.
The mortise-and-tenon joints are held together with wooden pegs. Remove the pegs with pin punches and hammers. The pegs tend to be larger on one side than the other. Take the pegs on the smaller end in order to avoid damaging the sash.
There are pockets where the glass panes are tucked once the sash has been completely disassembled. The pockets are usually secured by a screw or pin. They must be gently smashed by a sharp knife.
The sash is then ready to be coated with new compound. The author beds the sash using an easel made from wood, and then holds it against the easel as they work the compound into an edging or rabbet around the pane opening. Once the sash is bedded it is left to dry for two full days before being put back together. The sash is then treated with a homemade wood preserver made by mixing mineral spirits and boiled linseed oils. This reduces the amount of draughts and also improve the ability of the window to be closed and opened.
Drip Caps
Drip caps are basic, almost invisible caps that draw water away from window frames during a rainstorm. They are typically made from wood, but could also be constructed of bricks or other masonry. Some drip caps have an attractive appearance, while others are more utilitarian. Regardless of design, a good quality drip cap must be strong enough to withstand the elements and keep water from getting behind the casings, which can cause wood decay.
A drip cap can be easily installed by a homeowner using the use of a few tools and some basic knowledge. Many homeowners prefer to hire a professional to 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 it should slope away from the window. Use galvanized nails and apply a high-quality exterior grade sealant on the underside of the sheathing and drip cap.
Homeowners can create drip caps at home by using a sheet aluminum with a vice, a few tools. To do this homeowners must first remove or pry off the siding that is above the window and then cut a drip cap to a length slightly larger than the window. Once the drip cap has been cut, it should be placed under the flashing tape and secured to the sheathing using galvanized nails. The cap must be secured at both ends and secured to the sheathing.