How to Find a Window Repair Near You
The right window repair service will assist you whether your home has energy-efficient double-hung vinyl windows or single-paned wood windows. The business should provide an estimate free of charge and a written guarantee for its work.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes and locks. Certain companies offer limited warranties that expire over a period of time.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
When your window frame paint begins to peel or chip, it's usually a sign it's time to apply an update. The paint that is properly applied to the interior will last about 5 to 10 years indoors, and exterior paint could last 7 to 10 years based on the climate. But even the most effective paint will degrade with age and the elements. Paint chips and peels occur as the result of wear from the sun, rain and snow.
Peeling paint is a common way to expose wood that is not sealed and may cause problems with moisture if not treated. Moisture problems in wooden windows typically result from the absence of caulking and a leaky window seal. If moisture isn't dealt with quickly, it can seep into the frame or sill and cause the frame to rot.
To repair a peeling glass clean off all paint using a scraper or wire brush and sand the rough edges. If a chemical stripper or heat gun is used be sure to follow the instructions of the manufacturer carefully to ensure that you don't damage the glass and timber frame. Prime the bare wooden surface using an oil-based primer that blocks staining, 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 signs of decay. Minor rot can usually be repaired with a top-quality wood putty. Some painters like to apply an impervious preserver to the wood surface that is bare at this point to help avoid future problems like mildew or rot. However, this is not always required.
Coffee-Like Stains
When cleaning windows, people often encounter stains that look like coffee or tea. These staining can be caused by condensation which occurs when warm air inside your home is brought into contact with cool glass or windows. This issue is more prevalent during winter as colder temperatures outside can cause the air inside of your home to become humid and warmer.
Fortunately, there are several different methods for getting rid of these unsightly stains without damaging your window sills or blinds. Begin by removing any dirt or dust build-up using a microfiber fabric or non-scratch spongy. After soaking a clean, lint free cloth with water, place your cleaner to the surface of your window then wipe it back and forth. Repeat until the stains have been removed.
If the stains aren't gone, you might need to try a more abrasive approach. There are many abrasive cleaners which can take even the toughest stains from your glass without damaging it. A few of the most popular options include 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 label when using any of these products to ensure that you don't damage your glass.
Another method to prevent the formation of future hard water stains is by regularly wiping your windows with a clean, lint-free rag or paper towel. This will remove the minerals from your glass before they etch the surface. This can be extremely difficult and costly to get rid of.
Water Damage
Even the most secure windows can suffer water damage over time. This is because windows are constantly exposed to all types of weather and humidity, which gradually deteriorates the wood frames. The wood eventually begins to rot and cause serious issues. If the damage isn't addressed, you may need to replace your entire window frame. If you can identify the issue early, you will save money on costly repairs.
Water stains are the most common sign that your windows have experienced water damage. They are round or oval spots in white, brown, and yellow colors. These stains are usually found in the corners of the window. They can be caused by a variety of factors, like the absence of sun or a buildup in the sill pan.
Another sign that your windows have experienced water damage is the appearance of mold on the frame. The growth of mold can be seen in areas that have a lot of moisture and quickly spread throughout your home if you don't address it. Mold can cause health problems because it produces spores.
If you find that your window frames are beginning to rot, you'll need to contact an expert to replace the damaged pieces. In some cases the rotting may go so far as to sag drywall around the frame of the window. This could be a risky situation. You should also look for other indicators that suggest a leaky window to identify the issue before it gets out-of-hand. There is a musty smell that is a result of damp wood, soft spots that feel like they are spongy or a brittle or crumbly texture.
Rotted Frames
Water can cause wood to decay when it is placed in wooden window frames. Wood rot isn't just ugly, but it could also create health problems for you and your family. If you see an abundance of decayed wood around your windows, then it's time to replace the windows.
It is possible to recognize a decayed window frame based on its appearance, since the wood appears soft and discolored. It is also possible that paint has slid away from the wooden surface. The best method to test for decay is to feel the wood. Healthy, solid wood feels firm and solid. Wood that is rotted feels soft and mushy.
If the frame of your window is becoming rotten, you can get it removed using the help of a Hammer. Do this in a careful manner to avoid damaging the surrounding areas. Once the rot has been removed and the wood is filled, you can apply wood filler to any cracks. After the repair, you'll need to sand the wood down and apply a variety of waterproof wood sealer coatings.
The decay of window frames can result in mildew or even mold, which can lead to various health issues. Molds can cause symptoms like a stuffy nose or itchy eyes if you're sensitive. If you suffer from asthma these symptoms can become much more severe.
If wood that is rotten is repaired, it is important to keep in mind that the spliced repairs may allow more moisture to enter the frame than usual. This can lead to additional problems such as leaks and deterioration of your window.
Muntins & Mullions
While the terms mullions and muntins sound alike and are frequently used interchangeably, these two components of windows serve different functions. It is important to know the differences between these features when you are choosing windows for your home to help you choose the best design for your house. The differences between a muntin and a muntin can have a significant impact on your window's appearance as well as its functionality and authenticity.
In essence, a muntin is any type of vertical divider that separates the glass panes in a window. However, the term "muntin" is typically reserved for inner pieces of a window while the frames that surround it are referred to as stiles and rails. It could be because of they have similar alliterative sounding names or their function as structural components have led to their interchangeability.
The original purpose of the Mullions was to add support to large windows, as the walls that surrounded the early buildings were not able to bear the weight of large pieces of glass. The mullions and the muntins were also used to decorate windows while keeping the glass in place. Muntins and mullions serve only a decorative function.
There are a variety of kinds of muntins that are suitable for windows, such as between-the-glass designs that are built into the actual glass units. They can be constructed of wood, vinyl or aluminum. They have the look of traditional multi-paned windows without losing energy efficiency. Some windows can even feature both simulated and real muntins for a more customizable appearance.