10 Unexpected Windows Repair Tips

How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time

Windows that crack can be caused by a bad storm, lawnmowers hurling rocks or an accident. You may be able to manage with temporary fixes until an Mr. Handyman from Anne Arundel and North PG professional can come to fix the damage.

A strip of clear masking or packing tape will keep superficial cracks, like spider cracks, from worsening. Tape both sides of the crack.

Frames that are rotten

The rot on windows' wood isn't just unsightly and a potential safety hazard, it also reduces the insulation value of your home. Frames that are damaged by rot can allow cold air into your home and warm air to escape, causing you to lose money. This is because decaying wood allows moisture to enter and weaken the interior frame, reducing its ability to keep the cool or warm air in your home.

In addition, a weakened window frame can leave your home vulnerable to intruders who could easily penetrate the window to gain access to the interior of your home. Rebuilding and repairing your wooden windows will prevent this kind of damage, making your home more secure and appealing.

When your wooden window sills and frames become rotten, it's important to fix them as soon as possible, before the problem spreads. The first sign of rot is usually visible cracks or discolorations in the paint. More advanced signs of rotting may be a softer feeling to the wood, or a buildup of mold on the interior of the window frames.

If you experience any of these issues you must seek out a professional to inspect the damage and fix it as soon as you can. Wood rot spreads quickly and the earlier you address it, the less expensive and simpler it will be to fix. If you do not address it until the entire wood is rotting away and is unaffordable to repair.

In 95% of cases frames and sills that are rotting are fixable If the rot is caught early enough. Our skilled and experienced technicians can repair or replace the rotting areas of the frame, resulting in windows that look as good as new.

Muntins and Mullions

The mullions and muntins which divide your window panes aren't just decorative, they also help to help support the glass. They are a typical part of windows, and they can be damaged or even broken. It is not a matter of whether they are real, fake or a combination of both, If your mullions, muntins, or mullions become chipped, cracked, or scratched, it's essential to fix them. They can make your home look less appealing.

Muntins & Mullions

Although they look similar, and often confused (perhaps the alliteration helps) muntins, mullions and mullions are different window components. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation company will explain the differences 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 an elegant look to your home.

Although mullions aren't the strongest part of your window, they do provide some security. If a thief breaks one of your window panes they'll likely break the mullion as well to get into your home.

Putty can be used to repair broken mullions or muntins. Window repair experts clean the surface, apply new putty, and then secure them back in place. It's a relatively simple window repair and should not interfere with the functioning of your windows.

There could be problems with the frame or sashes if your windows leak or do not open and close properly. In certain instances, the sashes may be stuck in their frames because of broken cords or springs. They could also be too heavy or have fallen off the track. A sash that is difficult to lower or raise can usually be repaired by balancing the weights and springs.

The wood strips that hold a single sheet of glass in place on an older window are referred to as muntins or mullions. If they start to decay, they need to be replaced. Window repair experts can replace the rotted muntins or mullions, and they won't hinder the purpose of your windows.

One of the most frequent problems with old windows is the sill, which may not slope enough downward to let water drain away. It is important to examine the sill and ensure that it slopes downwards, away from the home. If it doesn't then a drip cap could easily be put in place. This simple task can reduce the possibility of moisture infiltration.

Sashes

If your window sashes are not functioning correctly, it is important to examine the situation. The weather and time can easily affect wooden window sashes. When they do not open properly, water or air can easily enter the room. Aluminum sashes may become unsuitable due to similar events. The dampness and sweating around the windows are common signs of these issues.

Most of the time, sash issues are the result of simple wear and tear. They can be fixed by filling and sanding the area before re-painting. More serious problems will require the removal of the window. This is a task best left to professional window repair companies.

The sash is disassembled by first by removing the locking pins as well as the sash cords from the window frame. Next, remove the parting beads (vertical strips of wood holding the upper sash) and then pull out the upper sash. After the sash is removed, it is possible to remove and store the sash hardware.

The mortise-and-tenon joints are held together by wooden pegs. Take the pegs off using the help of a pin punch and hammer. The pegs tend to be larger on one side than the other. Drive out the pegs on the smaller end in order to avoid damaging the sash.

You can see the pockets in which the glass panes are held after the sash has been completely removed. These pockets are often pinned or screwed into place and should be gently prised out using a sharp knife.

The sash is then ready to be painted with a new 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 pane's opening. The sash needs to dry for Window Repair a minimum of two days before it can be put back together. The sash is then treated using a homemade wood preservative made from one-half mineral spirits and one-half boiled linseed oils. This can reduce the amount of draughts that enter and increase the ability to close and open the window.

Caps with drip Caps

Drip caps are simple, nearly invisible caps that channel rainwater away from window frames in an event of storm. They are typically made of wood but can also be constructed from bricks or other types of masonry. Some drip caps are designed to look attractive and others have a more utilitarian appearance. No matter what the design, a quality drip cap must be able to withstand the elements and keep water from seeping behind casings, where it can cause wood decay.

With just a few tools, and a bit of knowledge, a drip cap can be easily installed by a homeowner. However many homeowners prefer having a professional contractor install their drip cap. A drip cap should be secured to the sheathing around the window, at least an inch from the trim board and should be sloping away from the window. Use galvanized nails, and apply a high-quality exterior grade sealant to the underside of both the drip cap and sheathing.

Drip caps are available in bulk from home improvement stores and window retailers homeowners can make them at home using a sheet of aluminum, a vice and some basic tools. To do this, the homeowner must first remove or cut a row of windows. Then, they will be able to cut the drip-cap to a length slightly wider than the the window. Once the drip cap has been cut, it is slipped under the flashing tape, and attached to the sheathing using galvanized nails. The cap should be nailed at both ends and attached to the sheathing.