How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time

Windows that crack can result from a violent storm, lawnmowers hurling rocks or an accident. You might be able to get by with temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman of Anne Arundel & North PG professional arrives to repair the damage.

The use of clear masking tape or packing tape can prevent superficial cracks, such as spider cracks, from becoming worse. Tape both sides of the crack.

Frames that are Rotted

The rot of wood around windows isn't just unsightly and a risk to your safety and a potential safety hazard, it also decreases the insulation value of your 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, which reduces its ability to keep heat or cool air in your home.

A frayed window frame could also expose your home to burglars who are capable of easily breaking the window and gain entry to your home's interior. This type of damage could be avoided by fixing and reinstalling your wooden windows. Your home will look more attractive and secure.

It is essential to fix your wooden window frames or sills as soon as possible to prevent the issue from getting worse. Typically, the first sign of rot will be visible cracks in your paint or spots of discoloration on the wood. More advanced signs of rotting will include a soft feel to the wood, or a growth of mold on the interior of your window frames.

If you notice any of these issues you must seek out a professional to inspect the damage and fix it immediately. Wood rot can spread quickly and the earlier it is addressed it is, the less it will cost to fix. If you do not address it until the entire wood has rotted away and is unaffordable to fix.

In 95% of the cases frames and sills that are rotting are fixable if the rot is detected early. Our technicians are highly skilled and can repair the rotting parts of the frame to give you windows that look like new.

Muntins & Mullions

The muntins or mullions between your window panes function as more than just decorative elements. They also support the glass. Therefore, they are an extremely common part of a window to become damaged or broken. Whether they are fake or real, when your mullions or muntins become damaged, chipped, or dented it is imperative to repair them, as they can be a significant detraction from the overall appearance of your home.

Muntins & Mullions

Although they may look similar, and are often confused (perhaps the alliteration can be helpful) muntins, mullions and mullions are different window components. To avoid confusion and miscommunication, a reputable window installation company will clarify the differences between these two parts.

Mullions or dividers are common in multi-paned windows. In the past, they were used to help support and separate large sheets of glass. Today, they are an attractive and stylish element that provides an elegant look to your home.

Although mullions may not be the most durable part of your window, they do offer some security. If a burglar breaks a window pane and breaks it, he'll likely smash the mullion in order to gain entry to your home.

Putty can be used to repair damaged mullions and muntins. Window repair experts clean the surface and apply new putty before re-securing the mullions and muntins. It's a relatively simple repair for windows that should not impact the performance of your windows.

If your windows are leaking or not opening and closing correctly, there could be issues with the sashes or frames. In certain cases, the sashes are stuck in their frames because of broken cords or springs. They may be too heavy or have fallen off the track. Balanced springs and weights can help a sash that is difficult to raise or lower.

The wood strips that hold a single sheet of glass in place on an older window are known as muntins, or mullions. If these become rotting, they need to be rebuilt. Window repair professionals can replace the rotted muntins or mullions, and they won't interfere with the purpose of your windows.

The sills of older windows may not slope enough to allow water drainage. Examine the sill to confirm that it slopes away from the house. If it isn't the drip cap can easily be installed. 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. Wooden window sashes can be easily affected by changes in weather and the passing of time. If they don't open properly, water or air can quickly get into the room. The same thing can cause aluminum sashes to become unsuitable. A dampness or shivering around windows are typical indicators of such problems.

Most often, sash issues result from simple wear and tear. They can be fixed by sanding and filling the area, then re-painting. More serious problems will require the removal of the window. This is best left to window repair professionals.

The sash is disassembled by first taking the locking pins off and the sash cords from the window frame. Next, remove the parting beads (vertical strips of wood that are holding the upper sash) and Windows Repair then pull out the upper sash. Once the sash has been removed, it is possible to remove and store the sash hardware.

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

You can see the pockets in which the glass window repair panes are held after the sash is completely disassembled. The pockets are usually fixed by screws or pins. They must be gently smashed with a sharp blade.

The sash window repair is now ready to be painted with a new compound. The person who wrote the book beds the sash using a homemade easel, holding it against the easel while forming the compound into the shape of a rabbet or groove around the pane opening. The sash must be allowed to dry for at least two days before it can be assembled. The sash is then treated with a homemade wood preserver made by mixing one-half mineral spirits with one-half boiling linseed oil. This will decrease the amount of draughts and also improve the capacity of the window to be closed and opened.

Drip Caps

Drip caps are basic, almost invisible caps that redirect water away from window frames during a storm. They are usually made of wood, although they may also be created from brick or some other form of brick. Some drip caps sport aesthetic appeal, whereas others are more functional. Whatever the design, a good quality drip cap must be strong enough to withstand the elements and prevent water from getting behind the casings, where it can cause wood decay.

With a few basic tools, and a bit of knowledge, a drip-cap is easily installed by a home owner. However, many homeowners prefer to have a professional contractor install their drip cap. The drip cap should be attached to the sheathing that surrounds the window at least one inch from the trim board and slope away from window. It is important to use galvanized nails and to apply a premium exterior sealant that is suitable for the underside of the drip cap and the sheathing.

Drip caps can be purchased in bulk from home improvement stores and window stores or homeowners can make them at home using an aluminum sheet, a vice and some basic tools. To make them, a homeowner must first pry up or remove the siding on top of the window, and then cut a drip cap to a length slightly larger than the window. After the drip cap is cut, it must be placed beneath the flashing tape and nailed to sheathing with galvanized nails. The cap must be nailed at both ends and attached to the sheathing.