How to Find a Window Repair Near You
If your home is decorated with antique wood single-pane windows or energy efficient vinyl double-hung windows, the best window repair company can help. The company should offer an estimate for free and a warranty for its work.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes and locks. Certain companies offer limited warranties that expire after a period of time.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
If the window frame paint starts to chip or peel it's usually a sign it's time for a new coat. Interior paint that's well applied will last about 5-10 years indoors. Paint for exterior use can last anywhere from 7-10 years, based on the conditions. However, even the best-applied paint will wear off with time and the elements. Paint chips and peels are the result of wear caused by rain, sun and snow.
Peeling paint may expose wood, which could result in moisture issues. The problems with moisture in wooden windows usually result from the lack of caulking or an unsound window seal. If moisture isn't dealt with promptly, it could be absorbed into the sill or frame and cause the frame to rot.
To fix a peeling window remove any paint that is loose with a scraper or wire brush, then sand the area to smooth rough edges. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines if you are using the heat gun or chemical stripper to prevent damaging the frame of the window and glass. Paint the wood surface with an oil-based primer which blocks stains, and then paint it with a high-quality enamel.
Take a look at the entire frame of your window to make sure that there aren't any indications of decay. Minor rot is usually repaired with a top-quality wood putty. Some painters prefer to apply a water-proof preservative to the bare wood at this point, which helps keep from future problems like mildew or rot. However, this is not always necessary.
Coffee-Like Stains
One of the most common problems that people run into when cleaning their windows is the appearance of stains that look like coffee or tea. These stained windows can be caused by condensation which occurs when warm air from inside your home comes into contact with cool glass or windows. This problem is more likely to occur during the winter months, since colder temperatures outside can cause your home's interior air to get more humid and warmer.
There are several ways to remove these unsightly stains, without damaging your blinds or window sills. Start by removing any dust or dirt build-up with a microfiber cloth or non-scratch spongy. After moistening the clean, lint-free cloth with water, place your cleaner on the surface of your window then wipe it in a circular motion. Repeat until the stains are gone.
If the stains aren't removed, you may have to try a more abrasive method. A variety of abrasive scrubbers are available to help get rid of even the most difficult staining without damaging or scratching your glass. The most popular options are steel wool rough green scrub sponges, and a product known as a magic eraser which has a similar texture to very fine sandpaper. Follow the directions on the packaging to keep your glass from being damaged.
A clean, lint free rag or paper towel is a second option to prevent the formation of future hard-water stains. This will take away the minerals from your glass before they etch the surface. This can be extremely expensive and difficult to remove.
Water Damage
In time, even the windows with the best seals can suffer from water damage. The frames made of wood slowly deteriorating due to exposure to moisture and weather. The wood eventually will begin to rot and cause major issues. In most cases, if the issue is not checked, you'll need to replace the entire window frame. If you spot the issue early, you can save money on costly repairs.
Water stains are a common indication of water damage to windows. They appear as circular or oval spots that are brown, yellow and white in colour. They usually appear close to the corners of the window. They can be caused by many things, such as the absence of sun or a buildup in the sill pan.
The appearance of mold around the window frame is another indication of water damage. The growth of mold can be seen in areas that are prone to moisture, and it can quickly spread throughout your home if it is not dealt with. Mold can cause health issues due to the fact that it produces spores.
If you discover that your window frames are beginning to rot it is recommended to call an expert to repair the damaged pieces. In some instances, the rotting may extend to make the drywall sag around the frame, which can be extremely dangerous. In the meantime, you should be looking for other indicators of a window that are leaky, which can help you deal with the issue before it gets out of control. You can detect the smell of musty damp wood or soft areas that feel spongy.
Frames that are rotten
Water can cause wood to rot if it gets into wooden window frames. Wood rot can be ugly and cause health problems for your family. If you notice a significant amount of rotten wood around your windows, it is likely that it is time to replace them rather than repair them.
It is possible to identify a rotten frame by its appearance. The wood will appear soft and discolored. It could also be that the paint will have peeled away from the wooden surface. The best method to determine if rot has occurred is to feel the wood. Wood that is healthy and solid is hard and brittle. Wood that has been rotted will feel soft and mushy.
If window repair near me is beginning to decay, employ a hammer or chisel for removing the rotten area. Do this in a cautious manner to avoid damaging the surrounding areas. Once the rot has been removed then apply wood filler to any cracks. Once the repair is completed, you should sand down the wood, and then apply several coats of wood sealer that are waterproof.
Rotted window frames can cause mildew and mold, which could lead to a number of health problems. If you are sensitive to molds and mildew, you may be afflicted with symptoms like a stuffy nose and itchy eyes when exposed to these substances. These symptoms are worse if you suffer from asthma.
It is important to keep in mind that when wood that is rotten is repaired, the repaired splice will permit more moisture to the frame than it would normally. This could lead to additional issues including leaks, and the deterioration of the window itself.
Muntins and Mullions
Although the words mullions as well as muntins sound alike and are often used interchangeably, these two windows have different purposes. When you are choosing windows for your home, it's essential to know the differences between these features so you can pick the ideal design for your home. The distinctions between a mullion and a muntin can have a significant impact on your window's appearance as well as its functionality and authenticity.
A muntin can be any vertical divider that is used to separate the glass panes of windows. The term "muntin" is typically reserved for windows' inner frames while the outer frames are referred to as stiles and rails. It is possible that their alliterative similarity or their function as structural support elements have led to the use of these terms interchangeably.
Mullions were originally designed to add support to large windows, since the walls that surrounded early structures were not able to withstand the weight of large pieces of glass. The mullions and muntins were also used to decorate windows while keeping the glass in place. Mullions and muntins serve only a decorative function.
There are a variety of muntins in the market today, including those that are constructed between glass and the actual units. These can be made of wood, vinyl, or aluminum. They have the appearance of traditional multi-paned windows without sacrificing energy efficiency. Some windows come with real and simulated muntins for a more customizable appearance.