How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time

Cracks in your windows can result from a violent storm, a lawnmowers throwing rocks or a collision. You may be able to make do with a few temporary fixes until Mr. Handyman of Anne Arundel and North PG professional arrives to repair the damage.

A strip of clear masking or packing tape can prevent superficial cracks, such a spider cracks, from worsening. Be sure to tape both sides of the crack.

Frames that are rotten

The rot of wood around windows is not just unsightly and ugly, but it could also be a safety hazard. It can also decrease the energy efficiency of a home. The frames that are rotten can let cold air in your home and warm air out, which can cause you to lose money. The wood that is rotting lets moisture into the frame and causes it to weaken. This decreases the frame's ability to maintain the temperature or cool inside your home.

In addition, a weakened window frame can leave your home vulnerable to intruders who can easily break through the window to access the interior of your home. Rebuilding and fixing your wooden windows can prevent this kind of damage, and make your home more secure and appealing.

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 is usually visible cracks or discolorations in the paint. The wood may feel soft, or Window Repair it could be that mold can build up on the inside of window frames.

If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is imperative to call in a professional to inspect the damage and repair it immediately. Wood rot spreads rapidly, so the sooner it is dealt with more affordable and less it will be to repair. If you put off addressing it until all the wood is rotting away, it is impossible to repair.

In 95% of the cases frames and sills that have rotted can be repaired when the rot is discovered early. Our technicians are highly skilled and are able to replace the rotting parts of the frame to give windows that look as new.

Muntins & Mullions

The muntins or mullions between your window panes serve as more than simply decorative elements. They also serve to support the glass. They are a standard part of windows, and they can be damaged or broken. Whether they are fake or real, when your mullions or muntins become damaged, chipped or dented it is imperative to have them repaired, 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), mullions and muntins are two distinct components of a window. 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 as a support and to separate large sheets. They are now used as an ornamental element and as a style in your home.

The mullions on your windows aren't the strongest part however they can provide some security. If a thief breaks one of your window panes he or she will likely break the mullion as well to gain entry into your home.

Putty can be used to repair broken mullions or muntins. Window repair specialists clean the surface, apply new putty, and then re-secure them. It's a relatively simple window repair and should not impact the performance of your windows.

There may be a problem with the frame or sashes if your windows leak or don't open and close properly. In certain cases, the sashes are stuck in their frames because of broken springs or cords. They may be too heavy or have fallen off the track. Rebalancing springs and weights can help a sash that is 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 called muntins or mullions. If they rot, you will need to rebuild them. Window repair experts can replace the rotted muntins or mullions, and they won't affect the purpose of your windows.

The sills of older windows might not slope downward enough to allow for drainage of water. It is important to examine the sill and ensure that it slopes downwards, away from the home. If it doesn't it is possible to install a new drip cap. can be installed. This simple step can decrease the chance of water infiltration.

Sashes

When window sashes stop functioning correctly it's time to take an in-depth look at the situation. The weather and the time can have a direct impact on wooden window sashes. When they do not open properly, window repair air or water can easily enter the room. Aluminum sashes may be ineffective due to similar events. Sweating and dampness around the windows are common signs of these issues.

The most common cause for sash issues is simple wear and tear. They can usually be fixed by filling, sanding and re-painting. More serious issues will require the removal of the window. This task should be left to professional window repair companies.

The disassembly of the sash starts by taking the locking pins off the top of the window frame and removing the sash cords. Then, remove the parting bead (vertical strips that hold the upper window sash). Then, pull out the upper window sash. When the sash is completely free, you can take it off the hardware for the sash and store it in a secure place.

The mortise-and tenon joints are held together by wooden pegs. Remove the pegs using pin punch and hammer. Often one side of the peg is more than the other and should be driven out from the smaller side to avoid damaging the sash.

After the sash is fully dismantled, you'll be able to see the pockets that hold the glass panes. These pockets are usually secured by screws or pins and must be gently snipped out using a sharp knife.

Once the pockets are removed the sash is then able to be put in new glazing compound. The author beds the sash by holding it against an easel and working the compound into the groove, or rabbet around the opening of the pane. The sash needs to dry for a minimum of two days before it is put back together. The sash is then treated using a homemade wood preservative that is made of one-half mineral spirits and one-half boiling linseed oil. This reduces the amount of draughts and also improve the ability of the window to be closed and opened.

Caps with drip Caps

Drip caps are simple, almost imperceptible caps that divert water away from window frames during a storm. They are often constructed from wood, but they could also be constructed out of brick or a different form of masonry. Some drip caps are designed to look attractive some have a more utilitarian appearance. No matter what the design, a good quality drip cap must be capable of enduring the elements and stop water from getting behind the casings, where it can cause wood rot.

With just a few tools, and some know-how, a drip cap can easily be installed by a home owner. However, many homeowners prefer to have an expert contractor install their drip cap. A drip cap should be nailed around the window, at least one 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 as well as the sheathing.

Homeowners can make drip caps at home using aluminum sheets, a vice, and a few tools. To do this the homeowner should first remove or pry off the siding on top of the window repairs and then cut a drip cap to a length that is slightly wider than the window. After the drip cap is cut, it is put under the flashing tape, and attached to the sheathing using galvanized nails. The cap must be secured on both ends and firmly attached to the sheathing.