Should You Call a Window Repairman?
Window repairmen can help you save money over time by installing a new, energy efficient window installation. However, you must take into consideration your budget and if it's better to replace your windows.
The cost of replacing windows could be pushed up by issues like rotting frames or seals that fail. Learn more about the most frequent issues with windows to determine when you should call a handyman.
Broken or cracked panes
A severe storm or a stray pebble by a mower, or a vase that is thrown over can cause a crack in your window glass. Even if there's only one small crack that needs to be repaired immediately before it worsens or the glass breaks. Broken windows can also pose an accident hazard since glass fragments can harm you or your family members.
Repairing a cracked window using clear tape or an adhesive strong enough to hold the glass together. It's best to make use of a two-part epoxy which is a resin and an hardener. To apply the epoxy first, prepare the area by covering your floor with cardboard sheets or drop cloth.
Remove the old glass and scrub it clean. Also, you should secure the area and inform your family members to stay out of the work area until the work is completed. Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to avoid handling shattered glass.
Once the broken window has been removed, remove any molding around the frame holding it in place and the glazing putty or points that keep the glass in place. It is usually possible to remove the glazing points with pliers.
Next, apply a cross-patch of masking tape across the crack to prevent it from spreading or breaking. Then, apply a second layer of tape on both sides to provide strength and stability. A serious crack in a double-paned windows can cause problems with the gas between the panes making your home less energy-efficient.
You can also place a plastic sheet on top of the glass to create an insulation. upvc window repairs near me is the least-invasive way to repair a cracked glass pane. For more serious damage, such as a gap between the panes of the window it's best to call a window repairman. They can assess the problem and recommend the best course of action for repairing your window. In some instances it is necessary to install a new window. In this instance an expert window repairman will assist you in selecting the right type of replacement for your home and install it in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Water Damage
Windows with leaks that are not treated properly can cause serious issues. Wood decay, water damage to ceilings and walls, and mold are a few of the issues that may be caused by leaks. Peeling or stains from water on paint near or around the window are usually the first sign of leaky windows. Puddles of water could develop beneath the window.
It is essential to call a window repair technician immediately if you notice any of these signs. A window repairman can help identify the source of a leak and make repairs to prevent it from happening again in the future.
Leaking windows are typically caused by deteriorating seals and caulking that can allow water to intrude into the frame or sill. Window sills can be especially vulnerable to moisture because they are typically exposed to direct sunlight as well as rain. Water leaking into the wood may cause rotting and cause massive structural damage to your home.
Recaulking around the windows' perimeter is the easiest way to repair a leaky window. Most homeowners can complete this task with a caulking gun or utility knife. Start with the exterior and begin to work your way towards the interior. A high-quality exterior caulk will be easy to clean, maintain and lasts for a a long time.
In more serious instances, a professional may replace the caulking or seals on the window, or re-caulk the area to prevent water from entering the home. In some instances, this may require replacing the entire window, or other structural repairs to the building or roof.
A window repairman is also able to inspect and make repairs to windows that leak and are located in an area that is difficult to reach. This includes windows on upper floors or in dormers as well as the roof of a house. While these windows aren't as common as standard windows however, they are still an essential component to any building or business and need to be maintained properly. It can be difficult to determine the source of a leaky window. Check for other indicators like siding or roof leaks, which can travel through joists and studs in the wall to reach the window.
Rotted Frames
A window frame that is rotten can expose your home to additional moisture that could cause damage to the wood. If rot is not addressed, it can lead to mold growth, and cause deteriorating insulation materials and framing members to break and compromise the structural integrity of your home. Based on the severity of decay, you may have to replace all your frames and windows. This can be quite expensive however, it is necessary when the frame is suffering from significant rot or decay.
If the decay is only affecting a small portion of the frame, a window repairman can repair the frame with epoxy filler. The majority of home improvement stores carry this product. Make sure to wash and dry the affected area prior to applying the filler. Applying a coat or two of epoxy consolidant will shield the repair from future decay and also help prevent. Apply the new filler using a putty blade when the wood is prepared. After applying the filler you can make it into a shape that matches its surrounding area. Allow it to dry before sanding. You can then prime and paint the window frame to complete the repair.
Also, you should be on the lookout for any rot around the window's sheathing. Caulk should be used to fill any gaps in the event that you notice cracks or breaks. This will stop water from entering your house and causing more damage. Before applying the caulk, however, you should utilize your tape measure to determine exact measurements of the rotted board. This will ensure that the new board is the correct size.
If your sash has become stuck due to high humidity, you may be able to free it by cleaning the sash's channel with a wood chisel and some grime removal. After the channel is clean it can be widened by inserting a piece of medium sandpaper, wrapped around a wooden block into the grooves in which the sash joins. When the sash is free and lubricated, you can apply with a bit of window wax.
Muntins or Mullions
Many homeowners are confused by the jargon used in window construction. This is understandable. The terms "mullion" and "muntin" although they are both similar have different meanings in the context of window construction.
A muntin (US), or glazing bar (UK) is a secondary framing element that holds several panes of glass within a single window sash or door panel and creates divisions within the window unit. They are decorative and are found in various architectural styles.
Historically, muntins were made to add structural support to outer walls of older buildings that weren't able to support the weight of large windows. They are mainly decorative and are often found on wood panels, replacement windows and doors.
If you examine a traditional window in Europe it's made of thin vertical dividers known as muntins or mullins. The dividers, usually made of steel or wood, provide a frame for the individual glass panes. Some dividers come with a grid design.
Muntins serve primarily as decorative elements, while they serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Mullions can provide a distinctive look to single-pane windows. With the addition of hinges and a track they can transform into casement units that can be opened and closed.
When a mullion or muntin or other window component is damaged the entire structure of the window can be affected. Often, the wall or siding, as well as the insulation require replacement in addition.
A professional window repairman with experience should inspect your window to determine whether the damage can be repaired, or if new windows are required. By having a professional look over your window and the surrounding area to avoid unnecessary expenses and headaches in the future. If you have any questions regarding the condition of your windows, call an experienced window installation company like Renewal by Andersen(r) of Rapid City today. Our window experts are always happy to assist!