Should You Call a Window Repairman?
Window repairmen can aid you in reducing energy costs over time. It is important to consider your budget and whether it is better to replace old windows.
Problems like rotting frames and seals that are damaged can make it more expensive replacing your windows. To decide when to hire a handyman, learn more about the most common window issues.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A storm that is severe or a stray pebble from a mower or a vase which is knocked over could cause a crack in your window glass. Even if it's just one small crack, it's important to take action before the crack gets worse and the glass cracks completely. Cracked glass can be dangerous, as it could cause your family members or you to get cut by shards.
A cracked window can be repaired using clear tape or an adhesive that is strong and holds the glass together. It is recommended to make use of a two-part epoxy which is a resin as well as an emulsifier. To apply the epoxy first, prepare the area by covering your flooring with cardboard sheets or drop cloth.
First, take off the old glass pane and clean it. It is also important to secure the area and inform your family members to stay away from the work area until you finish. Wear safety glasses and gloves to avoid working with broken glass fragments.
Once the broken window has been removed, take off the molding that holds it in the place. Also remove the glazing putty and points that secure the glass. You can usually remove the glazing points with pliers.
Then, you apply a cross-patch of masking tape across the crack to prevent it from spreading or breaking. Then you can apply another layer of tape on both sides to add strength and stability. A crack in a double-paned windows can cause problems with the gas between the panes making your home less efficient in energy use.
You can also use plastic sheets to insulate the glass. This is the least-invasive way to fix a damaged glass pane. Contact a window repairman if you have more serious damage like an opening between the panes. They will assess the damage and recommend the best method to fix your window. In certain situations, a new window may be necessary. In this situation the window repairman can help you choose the right type of replacement for your home and install it in the most efficient and cost-effective way.
Water Damage
Untreated leaks in windows can lead to serious issues. These problems include water damage to walls and ceilings and the development of mold. In most instances, the first sign of a leaky window is the presence of water peeling paint or stains that occurs near or around a window. Puddles of water can form beneath the window.
If you see these signs, it's important to call a window repairman as soon as you can. A repairman can assist you to determine the cause of the leak and make repairs to stop it from happening again in the future.
Caulking and seals that have been damaged can allow water into the sill or frame. Sills on windows are particularly vulnerable to moisture because they are frequently exposed to direct sunlight as well as rain. Water leaking through the wood can cause rot or structural damage.
Recaulking around the perimeter of a window is the most efficient way to repair a leaky window. This is a easy task that homeowners can complete using a utility knife or caulking gun. It is recommended to begin with the exterior of the house and work your way up to the interior. A high-quality exterior caulk is easy to clean, maintain and lasts for a a long time.
In more serious instances an experienced window repairman could replace the seals and caulking, or replace the caulking on the entire window to prevent water from entering the house. In some cases this may need replacement of the entire window or structural repairs to the building or roof.
A window repairman is also able to examine and repair windows that leak and are situated in a difficult-to-access location. This includes windows on upper floors or in dormers, as well as the roof of a house. These windows may not be as common as traditional windows, however they are still essential for any office or home and must be maintained in a timely manner. It can be difficult to determine the cause of a leaking window. Check for other indicators like siding or roof leaks that can pass through joists or studs within the wall to reach the window.
Frames that are rotten
A rotten frame can expose your home to more moisture, which can result in wood damage. Unchecked rot could cause mold growth, deteriorating insulating materials and framing members to crumble and compromise the integrity of your house. It may be necessary to replace your entire frame and window depending on the severity of rot. This can be a significant expense, but is necessary if the frame has significant decay or rot.
If the rot is restricted to a portion of the frame A window repairman might be able to repair the area using epoxy filler. The majority of home improvement stores carry this product. Be sure to clean and dry the affected area before applying the filler. Applying one or two coats of epoxy consolidant can protect the repair from decay and will help to prevent it. Apply the new filler using a putty blade once the wood is ready. After applying the filler, you can make it into a shape that matches its surroundings. Allow it to dry before sanding. You can then prime and paint the window frame to complete the repair.
It is also important to be aware of any signs of rot on the sheathing of your window. If you notice cracks or breaks, it is crucial to use caulk in order to fill in the gaps. This will stop water from leaking into your home and causing further damage. Before you apply the caulk, however, you must make use of your tape measure to get exact measurements of the board that has rotted. This will ensure that the replacement board is the right size.
If your sash is stuck due to high humidity, you might be able free it by cleaning the sash channel using an axe and dirt remover. After the channel is clean it can be widened by inserting a piece medium sandpaper encased in a wood block into the grooves in which the sash binds. Once upvc window repair has become loose you can lubricate it with a bit of window wax.
Mullions or Muntins
Some homeowners are confused by the jargon that is used in window construction, and rightly as. The terms "muntin" and "mullion" are similar, but have distinct meanings in the field of window construction.
A muntin, also known as a glazing bar (UK) is a second framing element that holds several panes of glass in a single window or door panel. It is used to create divisions within the window unit. They are usually decorative and are found in many architectural styles.
Historically, muntins were made to provide structural support to the walls of older buildings that weren't able to support the weight of windows with large dimensions. They are mostly decorative today and can be found on wooden panels, replacement windows and doors.
If you look at 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 an ideal frame for the glass panes. Some dividers feature a grid design.
Muntins are mostly used as decorative elements, while mullions serve both aesthetic and practical purposes. Mullions can provide a unique design to single-pane windows, and when paired with hinges and tracks, they can be converted into casement windows that can be closed and opened.
If a mullion or a muntin is damaged, it could affect the entire window structure. Often the wall, siding, and the insulation around the window will need to be replaced.
It is essential to have a certified window repairman inspect the damage to your window and determine if it is able to be repaired or if new windows are required. You can avoid unnecessary expenses and headaches by having a professional inspect the window and the surrounding area. If you have questions regarding the condition of your windows, you can contact a reputable window installation company like Renewal by Andersen(r) of Rapid City today. Our window experts are always ready to help!