How to Find a Window Repair Near You
The right window repair company will help you whether your home has energy efficient double-hung vinyl windows, or old wood single-paned windows. The company should offer an estimate free of charge and a written guarantee for the work they do.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes and locks. Other companies offer limited warranties that expire at various dates.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
If the paint on your window frame starts to chip or peel it's usually a sign that it's time to apply a fresh coat. The paint that is properly applied to the interior will last 5 to 10 years indoors, and exterior paint may last about 7 to 10 years based on the climate. But even the most effective paint will deteriorate with time and the elements. Paint chips and peels occur as the result of wear and tear from rain, sun and snow.
Peeling paint can expose bare wood, which can result in moisture issues. Problems with moisture in wooden windows typically result from a lack of caulking and a loose window seal. If moisture isn't treated promptly, it may be absorbed into the sill or frame and cause the frame to rot.
To repair a peeling window clean off all paint with a scraper or wire brush and sand the area to smooth rough edges. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for using a heat gun or chemical stripper to avoid damaging the glass and timber frame. Prime the bare wooden surface using an oil-based primer that blocks stains, and then paint it with high-quality enamel.
Examine the entire frame of your window to make sure that there aren't any signs of decay. Minor rot can be repaired with a top-quality wood putty. Some artists also prefer to apply a waterproof preservative to the wood that is bare at this point to prevent future problems such as mildew or rot. However, this is not always required.
Coffee-Like Stains
One of the most frequent problems that people encounter when cleaning their windows is the appearance of stains that appear like tea or coffee. These stains result from condensation, which happens when warm air from inside of your home comes in contact with cool windows or glass. This issue is more likely to occur during the winter months when colder temperatures in the outdoors can cause your home's interior air to get more humid and warmer.
Fortunately, there are several different methods for getting rid of these unsightly stains without damaging your blinds or window sills. Start by removing dust or dirt using a non-scratch cloth. After moistening the clean, lint-free cloth with water, apply your cleaner to the surface of your window then wipe it back and forth. Repeat until the stains are removed.
If the stains still persist, you may have to employ a more abrasive method. There are a myriad of Abrasive cleaners that will remove even the most tough stains off your glass without harming it. Some popular choices include steel wool, rough green scrub sponges, and a product known as a magic eraser, that is similar in texture to sandpaper that is very fine. Follow the directions on the package when using any of these products to ensure you don't harm your glass.
Another method to prevent the formation of future hard water stains is to regularly wipe your windows with a clean and lint-free paper towel. This will take away the minerals from your glass before they etch the surface. This can be very difficult and expensive to remove.
Water Damage
Even the best-sealed of windows can suffer water damage over time. The wooden frames slowly deteriorating due to exposure to weather and moisture. The wood eventually begins to rot and cause serious issues. If the damage isn't treated, you may have to replace the entire window frame. If you catch the problem early, you will save money on expensive repairs.
Water staining is a typical indication of water damage to windows. The stains appear as round or oval spots that are yellow, brown, and white in color. They are typically found close to the corners of windows. They are caused by a variety of things, such as a lack or sun, or a buildup in the sill pan.
Mold growth around the window frame is a further indication of water damage. Mold can grow in areas that have a lot of moisture and quickly spread throughout your home if you don't take care to address it. Mold can cause health issues because it produces spores.
If you notice that your window frames have developed a decaying texture, you'll require experts to repair the damaged parts. In some instances the rotting could extend to cause a sagging of the drywall around the frame, which could be a very dangerous situation. In the meantime, you should look for other indicators of a leaking window that can help you deal with the issue before it gets out of hand. This could be a musty smell that comes from damp wood, soft spots that feel spongy, or a crumbly or brittle texture.
Rotted Frames
When water seeps into wooden window frames, it could encourage the growth of fungi which cause wood to begin to rot. Wood rot isn't only ugly, but it could also create health problems for your family and you. If you notice a significant amount of decayed wood surrounding your windows, it's likely that it is time to replace them, rather than repair them.
It is possible to tell if a frame is rotten frame by its appearance. The wood will appear soft and discolored. You might also observe that the paint has slid off the wooden surface. The best way to test for rot is to touch the wood. Solid, healthy wood feels dense and firm. Wood that is rotten will feel soft and mushy.
If your window frame made of wood is beginning to rot, use a hammer and chisel for removing the rotten area. It is important to do this with care to avoid damaging the surrounding areas. After the rot is removed then apply wood filler to any cracks. After repair, you'll have to sand down the wood and apply several wood sealer coatings.
Window frames that are rotten can lead to mildew or mold, which can cause a variety of health problems. Molds can cause symptoms like an itchy nose or a stuffy eyes if you're prone. These symptoms may be worse if you suffer from asthma.
When rotted wood is repaired, it's crucial to keep in mind that the spliced repairs will allow more moisture into the frame than is normal. This could lead to further issues like leaks and the deterioration of your window.
Muntins and Mullions
These two windows are not interchangeable despite the fact that they sound similar. They have different functions. When you are choosing windows for your home, it's essential to know the difference between these features so you can pick the ideal style for your home. The differences between a mullion and a muntin may have an enormous impact on the appearance of your window, functionality, and historical authenticity.
Essentially, a muntin is a vertical divider that divides the glass panes in the window. The term"muntin" however, is reserved for the inner frames of a window. The outer frames are known as stiles and rails. It could be because of their similar alliterative sounds or their role as structural support elements has resulted in their interchangeability.
Originally, mullions were designed to support large windows as the walls on the outside of older buildings could not bear the weight. The mullions and the muntins were also used to decorate windows while keeping the glass in place. Muntins and mullions serve a purely aesthetic purpose today.
There are currently a variety of types of muntins for windows, such as between-the-glass designs that are integrated into actual glass units. These can be made of vinyl, wood, or aluminum. They have the appearance of traditional multi-paned window without losing energy efficiency. Some windows can even feature real and simulated muntins for a more custom appearance.