How to Have Your Windows Repaired and Still Enjoy Their Performance For Years to Come
Many homeowners are worried about the longevity of their window repair. It is possible to repair windows and enjoy their performance for a long time.
The spaces between the glass panes creates foggy windows. This can be fixed by cleaning the windows to eliminate the moisture, then resealing the windows.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make looking outside your window difficult, and reduce the amount of sunlight that can enter your home. They can also cause moisture and water to build up on the glass, which can cause sills and frames made of wood to decay over time. If you have windows that are constantly leaking it's probably due to condensation that's trapped between the two panes of your window. While this is a common issue, it's not one to ignore. Foggy windows can cause mildew, rot and mold to grow in the frame of your house and decrease energy efficiency.
Condensation occurs when warm, humid air cools on the surface that is cold. This shouldn't be a problem with your windows. If you have double-paned windows that are insulated, you should not experience this problem unless the seal has broken. Windows that are cloudy are a clear indication of this issue and it is important to have them examined by an expert to determine whether they're in need of replacement.
There are many DIY solutions that will help you to deal with foggy Windows. Many homeowners recommend placing a dehumidifier in close proximity to the window in order to get rid of any excess moisture. However, this won't solve the underlying issue, as the moisture will continue to build up between the window's panes, in the event that the seal is damaged.
Drilling holes into the top and bottom of your window panes is another common way to combat a foggy glass. Then, you'll place a desiccant, such as silica, into the holes to absorb water between your two window panes. Once the moisture has been removed from your window, it's crucial to allow the window to dry completely prior to sealing the holes.
These DIY techniques may work, but they are not a permanent fix. You'll likely notice that your windows are prone to fog again in the near future. Professional window replacement and installation will bring your windows back to their original condition. Contact a trusted company to learn how they can fix your windows and reduce the humidity inside your home.
Rotted Frames
Mold and mildew can cause health problems for your family members if wood rot develops around window frames or sills. The sensitivity to mold can cause itchy skin and eyes and wheezing, as well as breathing difficulties.
If the rot is only affecting a small part of the frame, you might be able repair it with wood filler epoxy. If the damage is extensive or if decorative features like mouldings intersect with other parts of the frame, it may be better to consider replacing windows.
To find out the extent of rot in your window frame you can gently test it with a putty knife screwdriver. If you push into the rot and find it is able to move easily, it's likely that the rot has penetrated deep into the wood and won't be able to be corrected with a wood filler epoxy.
To replace the timber, you should choose wood that has the same type of moisture content and the same type as the windows around it. This will ensure that the splice is robust and won't cause further problems in the future. If you are not sure about your ability to perform this task, it's always best to call in an expert.
An alternative to the splicing process is to treat the existing wooden frame with wood hardener. This is a great method to stop further rot and to stabilize the existing wood. This should be done as fast as is possible after removing the affected rotten timber to allow the treatment to be effective.
If the rot is severe and cannot be treated using a splice, or wood hardener replacing the entire window might be necessary to avoid further damage to your home. It may be a greater cost upfront but it will pay off in the long run. You can also upgrade to a window that is more energy efficient.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they may look identical, muntins look distinct from Mullions. Understanding the distinctions between these two parts can aid homeowners in ensuring they're on the same page as their window company.
Mullions are vertical elements that split a single piece of glass into two. In the past, mullions held smaller glass panes to form larger expanses. Today, mullions are used for decorative purposes, however they are also a part in a double-glazed window system to replicate the look of multi-paned windows without sacrificing efficiency.
Muntins can also be thin strips of wood used to divide the panes of window glass. They can be used as an element that is permanent or a decorative accent. Based on the material they are constructed from, muntins can be made from either wood or metal. They can be stained or painted to match a window's color scheme. Muntins are usually the centerpiece of rooms in many homes. They add dimension and detail to a room, which increases its visual size.
Muntins are predominantly decorative in nature but they also serve to increase security for your home. Because they are located between windows, a break-in will require breaking one of them and then removing the other to gain entry. In addition, muntins that remain intact can help to keep out the elements and debris that would otherwise enter a home.
Few window companies invest a lot of time to distinguish the distinctions between muntins and mullions. These terms are often interchanged and are sometimes referred to as grilles in informal usage. It's best to avoid this confusion, as it can be confusing for homeowners.
It's also worth noting that mullions and muntins serve structural functions but they aren't required in modern windows. No matter what their purpose, these window features are crucial to create visually appealing and functional windows. When choosing the ideal windows for your home you must take into consideration the architectural style and maintenance needs of your home. Then, choose the type of window that best reflects these elements.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-paned windows are renowned for their energy efficiency, and they also have great insulation properties. Unfortunately, a crack or break in the window could significantly diminut these benefits and lead to higher costs for cooling and heating as well as condensation and water damage to your home or office.
Double pane windows consist of two sheets of glass with a gap in between, which is typically filled with inert gases like argon to prevent heat transfer and further insulate the window. If one pane develops cracks or leaks, gas can escape and your window will not be as efficient.
If a double pane windows appears foggy or has visible condensation, it is because the window seals have failed and allowing in humid air. This air will cause the silica gel pellets that are in between the two panes to expand up, which causes condensation in the window. A window that is at this level will probably require replacement.
Many homeowners are worried about the cost of replacing their double-pane windows but it's important to consider that replacement may be more economical in the long term. Repair services will be required more often for a double-paned window that is damaged or cracked, or leaky than a brand new window. It also increases the chance of moisture intrusion. This could cause mold and mildew that could impact your family's health.
Double-pane windows can also boost the value of a house which makes it more attractive to potential buyers. Double-paned windows offer many other advantages, including less noise pollution, less costs for energy and a reduction in your monthly energy bill.
If you're not sure if your window has a double or single pane, place an object against the outside glass. If you only see one reflection, you have single pane windows. Two reflections indicates that the window is double-pane. A professional can assess the integrity of your window and determine if it requires replacement or repaired. A qualified window doctor will typically be able repair a double-paned window without having to replace the entire unit. This can save you both time and money.