How to Find a Window Repair Near You
The best window repair company can assist you regardless of whether your home is equipped with energy-efficient double-hung vinyl windows, or old single-paned wood windows. The company should offer an estimate free of charge and a warranty for its work.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes, and locks. Some companies offer limited warranties that run out over a period of time.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
When your window frame paint begins to peel or chip, it's usually a sign that it's time to apply a fresh coat. Interior paint that is well applied will last about 5-10 years indoors. Paint for exterior use can last anywhere from 7-10 years, based on climate. However, even the best-applied paint will wear off with time and the elements. Paint chips and peels occur as the result of wear from rain, sun, and snow.
Peeling paint can expose bare wood and can cause issues with moisture if it is not treated. Lack of caulking or a loose seal could cause moisture issues in wooden window frames. If moisture is not addressed promptly the water can seep into the sill or frame and cause mold or 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 instructions of the manufacturer when using a heat gun or chemical stripper to avoid damaging the frame of the window and glass. Prime the bare wood with a stain-blocking, oil-based primer and then finish it off with an enamel paint of high-quality.
Check the entire frame of your window to ensure that there aren't any signs of decay. Minor rot is usually repaired with a high-quality wood putty. Some artists also prefer to apply a preservative that is waterproof to the wood at this point to keep from future problems like mildew or rot. However, this isn't always required.
Coffee-Like Stains
When cleaning windows, you will often encounter stains that resemble coffee or tea. These stainings result from condensation, which happens when warm air from inside of your home comes in contact with cool windows or glass. This problem is more likely to occur during the winter, as colder temperatures outside can cause your home's interior air to become warmer and more humid.
Fortunately, there are several different ways to get rid of these stainings without harming your blinds or window sills. Begin by removing dust or dirt using a non-scratch cloth. After soaking the clean, lint-free cloth with water, place your cleaner on the surface of your window, wiping it around and back. Repeat the process until you've removed all stains.
If the stain isn't removed, you may have to try a more abrasive method. A range of abrasive scrubbers is available that can help remove even the most stubborn stain without damaging or scratching your glass. The most popular options are steel wool rough green scrub sponges and a product referred to as a magic eraser which has a similar texture to very fine sandpaper. Make sure to follow the directions on the packaging to ensure that you don't damage your glass.
Another method to prevent future stains from hard water is by regularly wiping your windows with a clean, lint-free rag or paper towel. This will take away the minerals from your glass before they etch the surface. This can be extremely difficult and costly to remove.
Water Damage
Even the most well-sealed windows are susceptible to water damage over time. This is because windows are exposed to all kinds of weather and moisture which slowly degrades the wooden frames. The wood will eventually begin to rot, causing serious problems. In most cases, if the damage is not checked, you'll need to replace the entire window frame. If you catch the problem early, you can save money on costly repairs.
Water staining is a typical sign of water damage to your windows. The stains are circular or oval spots in the brown, yellow and white shades. These stains are usually found near the corners of the window. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including the absence of sun or a buildup in the sill pan.
The growth of mold around the window frame is a further indication of water damage. Mold can grow in areas with excess moisture and spread quickly throughout your home if you do not address it. This is because mold produces the spores which can affect your health and wellbeing.
If you notice your window frames are beginning to rot it is recommended to call an expert to replace the damaged pieces. In some cases the rotting might be so severe that it could make the drywall sag around the frame, which could be a very dangerous situation. In the meantime, you should look for other signs of a window that are leaky, which will allow you to address the problem before it becomes out of control. You could look for a musty smell coming from damp wood or soft spots that feel spongy.
Rotted Frames
When water seeps in wooden window frames, it can encourage the growth of fungi that cause wood to rot. Wood rot isn't only unsightly, but it can also create health problems for your family and you. If you notice lots of decayed wooden around your windows, it's time to replace the windows.
It is possible to recognize a decayed window frame based on its appearance, as the wood appears soft and discolored. You may also be able to see that the paint has slid off the wood's surface. The best way to check for decay is to feel the wood. Wood that is healthy and solid is dense and firm. Rotted wood will feel soft and mushy.
If your wood window frame is rotting, you should use a hammer and chisel to remove the rotten area. It is crucial to perform this work in a safe manner to ensure that you don't cause damage to the surrounding areas. Once the rot has been removed then apply wood filler to any cracks. After repair, you will need to sand the wood down and apply several waterproof wood sealer coatings.
The decay of window frames can result in mildew or even mold, which can lead to numerous health issues. If you are a mold sensitivity, you will experience symptoms such as stuffy nose and itchy eyes when exposed to these substances. These symptoms can be much worse if you suffer from asthma.
If wood that is rotten is repaired, it is important to remember that the spliced repairs will let more moisture into the frame than is normal. This could lead to additional issues, including leaks and the degrading of the window.
Muntins and Mullions
These two window components aren't interchangeable, despite the fact that they sound similar. They serve different purposes. It is crucial to know the distinctions between these features when you are choosing windows for your home to help you choose the most appropriate style for your home. The differences between a mullion and a muntin could have a an enormous impact on your window's style functionality, as well as historical authenticity.
In essence, a muntin is any kind of vertical divider used to separate the glass panes within a window. The term"muntin" is reserved for the inner frames of windows. The frames that are outside are known as stiles and rails. It could be that they have similar alliterative sounding names or their function as structural components has led to their interchangeability.
The original purpose of the Mullions was as a way to support large windows, as the walls that surrounded early structures were not able to bear the weight of large sections of glass. The mullions and muntins were also used to decorate windows and keep the glass in place. Muntins and mullions serve a purely aesthetic purpose today.
Today, there are several types of muntins for windows, such as between-the-glass designs that are integrated into actual glass units. These can be made of wood, vinyl or aluminum. They have the look of traditional multi-paned windows without cutting down on energy efficiency. Some windows come
