How to Find a Window Repair Near You
The best window repair company will assist you whether your home is equipped with energy-efficient double-hung vinyl windows or wood single-paned windows. The company should offer an estimate for free and a guarantee on its work.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes and locks. Others have limited warranties that expire at different times.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
If the window frame paint starts to chip or peel, it is usually time to apply a new coat. Interior paint that's well applied will last approximately 5-10 years indoors. Paint for exterior use will last between 7 and 10 years, based on conditions. Even the most effective paint application will wear down as time passes and exposure to the elements. Paint chips and peels as the result of wear caused by rain, sun and snow.
Peeling paint often exposes bare wood and can cause problems with moisture if not treated. Moisture problems in wooden windows are usually the result from the lack of caulking or an unsound window seal. If moisture isn't addressed promptly it can get into the sill or frame and cause mold or rot.
To repair a glass that is peeling clean off all paint by using a scraper or wire brush and sand to smooth out rough edges. If a chemical stripper or heat gun is employed, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to avoid damaging the unprotected glass and frame of timber. Prime the bare wood using an oil-based primer that blocks staining and then finish it with an enamel paint of high-quality.
Examine the entire frame of the window to ensure that there is no evidence of rot or structural damage. Minor rot can usually be repaired with a top-quality wood putty. window repair Bexley prefer to apply a waterproof preservative to the wood at this point to avoid future problems like mildew or rot. This is not always required.
Coffee-Like Stains
One of the most common problems that people encounter when cleaning their windows is the appearance of stains that appear to be tea or coffee. These streaks result from condensation, that occurs when warm air from the inside of your home comes in contact with cool windows or glass. This is a more frequent issue during winter as colder temperatures outside can cause the air inside of your home to become warmer and humid.
Fortunately, there are several different methods for getting rid of those unsightly stained spots without damaging the window sills or blinds. Begin by removing any dust or dirt build-up with a microfiber cloth or non-scratch spongy. After dampening a 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 gone.
If the staining is still present, you may have to employ the more abrasive method. There are a myriad of abrasive cleaners which can take even the most difficult stains from your glass without harming it. A few of the most popular options include steel wool scrub sponges, rough green scrub and a product referred to as a magic eraser which has a similar texture to very fine sandpaper. Follow the instructions on the packaging to ensure that you don't damage your glass.
A clean, lint-free paper towel or rag is a second option to prevent future hard-water stains. This will help remove the minerals before they are able to scratch into the glass's surface, which can be extremely difficult and costly to remove.
Water Damage
Even the most well-sealed windows are susceptible to water damage over time. The wood frames are slowly deteriorating due to exposure to moisture and weather. In time, the wood begins to decay and cause serious problems. In a majority of cases, if the issue is not checked, you'll need to replace the entire window frame. If you catch the problem early, you will save money on expensive repairs.
Water staining is the most typical sign that your windows have experienced water damage. They appear as circular or oval spots that are brown, yellow and white in colour. They usually appear near the corners of your windows and can be caused by a variety of issues that include a lack of sun or a buildup of dirt in the sill pan.
Another indication that your windows have experienced water damage is the appearance of mold on the frame. The growth of mold is evident in areas that are prone to moisture, and it can quickly spread throughout your home if it is not addressed. This is because mold produces the spores which can affect your health and well-being.
If you find that your window frames have begun to show signs of discoloration, you'll require experts to repair the damaged parts. In some instances the rotting may go so that the drywall is sagging around the frame of the window. This could be a very dangerous situation. In the meantime, be looking for other indicators of a leaky window that will allow you to address the issue before it becomes out of control. This could be a musty smell that is a result of damp wood, soft spots that feel spongy, or a crumbly or brittle texture.
Frames that are Rotted
When water seeps into wooden window frames it can encourage the growth of fungi which cause wood to rot. Wood rot isn't only unsightly, but it can also create health problems for you and your family. 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.
You might be able to recognize a decayed window frame by its appearance, as the wood will look soft and discolored. It could also be that the paint will have peeled away from the wooden surface. The best way to test for rot is by touching the wood. Wood that is healthy and solid feels firm and solid. Wood that is rotten will feel soft and mushy.
If the window frame of your wooden home is rotting, you should employ a hammer or chisel for removing the rotten area. 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 repair, you'll need to sand the wood and apply a variety of waterproof wood sealer coatings.
Window frames that are rotten can result in mildew or even mold, which can cause various health issues. Molds can trigger symptoms such as an itchy nose or a stuffy eyes if you are sensitive. If you have asthma, the symptoms may become more severe.
When wood that has been damaged is repaired, it is important to remember that the spliced repairs will allow more moisture into the frame than is normal. This could cause further issues such as leaks and deterioration of the window itself.
Muntins and Mullions
These two window components are not interchangeable despite the fact that they sound similar. They serve different purposes. When you are choosing new windows, it's important to know the difference between these features so you can pick the ideal design for your home. The differences between the muntin and Mullion can have an enormous impact on the look as well as the functionality and historical authenticity of your window.
A muntin is any vertical divider used to divide the glass panes of a window. The term "muntin" is typically reserved for inner pieces of a window while the frames that surround it are known as stiles and rails. It could be because of their alliterative sounds are similar or their function as structural support components has led to their interchangeability.
Originally, mullions were created to support large windows because the walls on the outside of older buildings could not bear the weight. The mullions and muntins were also used to decorate windows while keeping the glass in place. Today, mullions and muntins are typically used on windows for aesthetic reasons.
There are currently a variety of kinds of muntins that are suitable for windows, including between-the-glass styles which are built into actual glass units. These can be made from vinyl, wood or aluminum. They have the look of traditional multi-paned windows without losing energy efficiency. Some windows come with real and fake muntins to give them a more customized appearance.