How to Get Your Windows Repair Done Right the First Time

Windows that crack can be caused by a bad storm, a lawnmowers throwing a rock or an accident. You could get by with temporary fixes until a Mr. Handyman of Anne Arundel & North PG professional arrives to repair the damage.

A clear packing tape or masking tape can keep superficial cracks, like spider cracks, from getting worse. Tape both sides of the crack.

Frames that are Rotted

The rot of wood around windows is not only unsightly, but it can be a danger to your safety. It can also decrease the insulation value of a house. Rotted frames allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape, which costs you money. The rotting wood allows moisture into the frame and causes it to degrade. This affects the frame's ability to maintain heat or cool in your home.

A weak frame for your window can also expose your home to burglars who will be able to easily break the window and gain entry to your home's interior. This kind of damage can be prevented by repairing and reinstalling your wooden windows. Your home will become more attractive and safe.

It is crucial to repair your wooden window frames or sills as soon as you can and before the problem gets worse. Typically, the first indication of rot is visible cracks in your paint, or spots of discoloration on the wood. The wood may appear soft or feel brittle, or mold could form on the inside of window frames.

It is essential to call a professional when you spot any of the above problems. Wood rot is a fast-growing issue and the earlier it is addressed it is, the less it will be to fix. In reality, if you wait until the wood is completely rotten, it will be impossible to fix.

Fortunately, window frames that are rotting and sills are repairable in 99% of cases where the rot has been detected early. Our technicians are highly skilled and can repair the rotting parts of the frame, giving windows that appear like new.

Muntins and Mullions

The mullions and muntins which divide your window panes aren't just decorative they also serve to support the glass. As such, they are a common component of a window to become damaged or broken. Whether they are fake or real, when your muntins and mullions become damaged, chipped or installation dented it is imperative to get them repaired because they could be a major hindrance from the overall appearance of your home.

Muntins & Mullions

Although they may look similar, and often mistaken for one another (perhaps the alliteration can be helpful) muntins, mullions and mullions are different window components. A reliable window installation company will explain the distinctions between them to avoid miscommunication and confusion.

Mullions, or the glass panes' dividers, are a common component in traditional multi-pane windows. In the past, they were used as support for the windows and also to separate large sheets. They are a decorative element and style in your home.

The mullions on your windows aren't the strongest, but they do offer some security. If a burglar breaks one of your window panes, they'll likely break the mullion as well to get into your home.

Broken mullions and muntins can be repaired with putty. Window repair experts clean the surface and apply new putty and then re-secure them. This is a simple repair that won't alter the functionality of your window.

There may be a problem with the frames or sashes if the windows leak or don't shut and open correctly. In certain cases, the sashes are 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 is usually repaired by balancing the weights and springs.

The wood strips that hold a single sheet of glass in position on a window that is older are known as muntins, or mullions. If they begin to rot they must be rebuilt. Window repair specialists will replace damaged muntins and the mullions with no impact on the performance of your windows.

The sill of old windows may not slope enough to allow for water drainage. It is important to examine the sill and make sure that it slopes downward, away from the house. If it doesn't, a new drip cap could be put in place. This simple step can decrease the likelihood of water infiltration.

Sashes

When window sashes stop functioning correctly it's time to take an in-depth look at the situation. Wooden window sashes can be easily affected by changes in weather and the passing of time. If they are not opened correctly, air or water can enter the room quickly. Aluminum sashes could become unsuitable due to similar circumstances. The presence of damp or sweat on windows is a common indicator of such issues.

The most common cause for problems with sash is simply wear and tear. They can be addressed by filling the area, then re-painting. However, more serious issues may require the dismantling of the sash. This task should be left to a professional window repair company.

The sash is disassembled by removing the locking pins from the top of the window frame and taking off the sash cords. Then, take off the parting bead (vertical strips holding the upper window sash). Then take out the upper window sash. Once the sash is unlocked, you can take it off the sash hardware and store it in a secure place.

The mortise and tenon joints in the sash are joined by wooden pegs. Remove the pegs with pin punch and hammer. The pegs are often larger on one side than on the other. Drive out the pegs from the smaller end in order to avoid damaging the sash.

When the sash has been completely disassembled you'll be able to see the pockets that support the glass panes. These pockets are often secured by screws or pins and should be gently prised out using a sharp knife.

The sash is now ready to be painted with new compound. The artist beds the sash by placing it against a homemade easel and then working the compound into the groove, or rabbet, around the pane's opening. The sash must be allowed to dry for a minimum of two days before it is assembled. The sash is then treated with a homemade wood preserver made using a mix of mineral spirits and boiled linseed oil. This reduces the amount of that draughts are emitted, and increase the ability of the window to be shut and opened.

Caps with drip Caps

Drip caps are simple, virtually invisible caps that divert rainwater away from window frames in the event of a storm. They are usually made of wood, but they can also be made from bricks or other masonry. Some drip caps sport an attractive appearance, while others are more practical. A good quality drip cap will be resistant to the elements and keep water from leaking into the casings, which could cause wood rot.

With a few basic tools, and a bit of knowledge, a drip cap can easily be installed by a homeowner. Many homeowners prefer to hire a professional to install their drip cap. A drip cap must be nailed around a window, at least one inch away from the trim board and it should slope away from the window repairs. Use galvanized nails, and apply a high-quality exterior grade sealant to the underside of the drip cap and sheathing.

Homeowners can make drip caps at home by using a sheet aluminum, a vice, and a few basic tools. To do this first, the homeowner needs to remove or cut a row of windows. Then, they'll be able to cut the drip cap to a length slightly wider than the size of the window. After the drip cap is cut, it is placed under the tape and secured with galvanized nails onto the sheathing. It is important to nail the cap at both ends, and that it is attached to the sheathing in such a way that it doesn't move, even with the weight of the sheathing and siding that is attached.