How to Find a Window Repair Near You
Whether your home has vintage wood single-pane windows or energy efficient double-hung windows made of vinyl, the best window repair company can help. The business should provide an estimate free of charge as well as a guarantee for the work they do.
Some window companies offer lifetime warranties on frames, sashes, and locks. Some companies offer limited warranties that run out over some time.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
If the window frame paint starts to chip or peel it's usually the time to apply a new coat. Interior paint that's well applied will last for about 5-10 years indoors. Exterior paint can last from 7 to 10 years, based on conditions. But even the most effective paint will degrade with age and the elements. Paint chips and peels are the result of wear and tear from rain, sun and snow.
Peeling paint is a common way to expose bare wood and can cause moisture problems if not addressed. Lack of caulking or a loose seal could cause moisture problems in wooden window frames. If moisture isn't addressed quickly, it can get into the frame or sill and cause the frame to rot.
To repair a peeling glass remove all paint by using a scraper or wire brush and sand the rough edges. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a chemical or heat gun stripper to avoid damaging the frame and glass. Paint the wood surface with an oil-based primer which blocks staining, then paint it with a high-quality enamel.
Examine the entire frame of the window to ensure there are no signs of rot or major structural damage. In the majority of cases small rots can be repaired with a high-quality wood putty. Some painters like to apply an impervious preserver to the wood surface that is bare at this stage to help keep from future problems such as mildew or rot. However, this is not always required.
Coffee-Like Stains
One of the most frequent problems that people run into when cleaning their windows is the appearance of stains that appear like tea or coffee. 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 problem is more common during winter as colder temperatures outside can cause the indoor air of your home to become humid and warmer.
Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of these unsightly stained spots without damaging your blinds or window sills. Begin by removing dust or dirt with a non-scratch microfiber cloth. After soaking the clean, lint-free cloth with water, apply your cleaner to the window's surface then wipe it in a circular motion. Repeat window repairs near me until you've removed the stains.
If the staining continues to persist, you may have to resort to an even more abrasive approach. There are a variety of abrasive cleaners that can remove even the toughest stains from your glass without harming it. The most popular options are steel wool, rough green scrub sponges and a product referred to as a magic eraser which is similar in texture to sandpaper that is very fine. Make sure to follow the directions on the packaging to ensure that you don't damage your glass.
Another method to prevent future stains from hard water is to wipe your windows with a clean and lint-free paper towel. This will take away the minerals from your glass before they can scratch the surface. This can be extremely difficult and costly to remove.
Water Damage
Even the best-sealed of windows may suffer from water damage over time. The wood frames are slowly degrading due to constant exposure to moisture and weather. The wood eventually will begin to rot and cause major problems. If the damage isn't treated, you may have to replace the entire window frame. If you can identify the issue early, you can save money on costly repairs.
Water staining is the most frequent indication that your windows have experienced water damage. The stains appear as round or oval spots that are yellow, brown and white in hue. They usually form near the corners of your window and are caused by a variety of issues that include the absence of sunlight or the accumulation of dirt in the sill pan.
The growth of mold around the window frame is a further indication of water damage. 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 dealt with. Mold can cause health problems due to the fact that it produces spores.
If you notice that your window frames have developed a rotting texture, you will require the experts to replace the damaged parts. In some cases it can go as that the drywall is sagging around the window frame. This could be a risky situation. In the meantime, you should be looking for other indicators of a window that are leaky, which will allow you to address the issue before it gets out of control. There is a musty smell that is caused by damp wood soft spots that feel spongy, or a brittle or crumbly texture.
Frames that are Rotted
Water can cause wood to decay when it gets into wooden window frames. Wood rot can be unsightly and can cause health issues for your family. If there is a large amount of decayed wood surrounding your windows, it is likely that you need to replace them rather than repair them.
It is possible to recognize a decayed window frame by its appearance, since the wood will look soft and discolored. You might also be able to see that the paint has slid off the wood's surface. The best way to test for rot is by touching the wood. Solid, healthy wood is dense and firm. Wood that has been rotted will feel soft and mushy.
If the frame of your window is becoming rotten, you can remove it with the help of a hammer. It is vital to do this in a safe way so that you don't damage the surrounding areas. Once the rot is removed, you should then apply wood filler to fix any cracks. Once the repair is completed you can sand the wood and then apply several coats of wood sealer that are waterproof.
The decay of window frames can cause mildew or mold, which can lead to numerous health issues. If you are sensitive to mold you might suffer from symptoms like a stuffy nose and itchy eyes when exposed to these substances. If you suffer from asthma these symptoms may become more severe.
It is important to keep in mind that when wood that is rotten is repaired the repaired splice will permit more moisture in the frame than it would normally. This could cause further issues including leaks, and the degradation of the window itself.
Muntins and Mullions
While the terms mullions and muntins sound alike and are frequently used interchangeably, these two components of windows serve different purposes. It is important to know the differences between these features when selecting new windows so that you can select the most appropriate style for your house. The distinctions between a muntin and a Mullion can have a major impact on the appearance, functionality and historical authenticity of your window.
A muntin could be any vertical divider that is used to separate the glass panes of a window. The term"muntin" is reserved for the inner frames of a window. The frames on the outside are referred to as stiles and rails. It could be because of their similar alliterative sounds or their role as structural support components have led to their interchangeability.
Mullions were initially designed to add support to large windows, as the outer walls of the early buildings were not able to withstand the weight of large sections of glass. They also could give a stylish look to windows, while assisting the glass to stay in its place. Muntins and mullions serve a purely aesthetic purpose today.
Today, there are several types of muntins for windows, including between-the-glass styles that are built into the actual glass units. They can be constructed from vinyl, wood, or aluminum. They look like traditional multi-paned window without cutting down on energy efficiency. Certain windows have real and fake muntins in order to give them a more customized appearance.