How to Have Your Windows Repaired and Still Enjoy Their Performance For Years to Come
Many homeowners are concerned about the longevity of their window repairs. It is, however, possible to have windows repaired and continue to enjoy their performance for many years to be.
Foggy windows are caused by the presence of moisture in the gaps between glass panes. This can be resolved by cleaning the windows, eliminating the moisture, and then sealing them.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make it difficult to look through your windows, obscuring the view and reducing the natural light that enters your home. The accumulation of moisture and water on the glass and cause wooden frames and sills over time to rot. If your window is always fogged up, the cause is likely to be condensation that has been trapped between the two panes. While this is a common issue, it's not one to ignore. The condensation of windows can cause rot, mold, and mildew growth on the frame of your home, and an increase in energy efficiency.
Condensation forms when moist, warm air cools on a cold surface, but this isn't supposed to occur in your windows. This problem shouldn't happen in double-paned windows, unless the seal has been broken. The windows that appear cloudy are a sure sign of this problem. It's important to get them checked by a professional to determine if they are in need to be replaced.
The good news is that there are a variety of DIY solutions to help you deal with windows that are hazy. Many homeowners recommend applying a dehumidifier to the window to remove excess moisture. However, this will not resolve the issue, since moisture continues to build up between the window panes once the seal has been damaged.
Drilling view it in the top and bottom of your window panes is another common way to combat a foggy glass. You'll then insert a desiccant, such as silica gel in the holes to absorb moisture between the two panes of your window. Once the moisture has been removed from your window, it is important to allow the window to dry completely before sealing the holes.
While these DIY methods are effective but they're not a long-term solution, and you'll probably find that your windows will be prone to fogging in the near future. In the end, a professional window replacement and installation service is your best bet for restoring your windows back to their original state. Contact a trusted company to find out how they can repair your windows and reduce the humidity inside your home.
Frames that are Rotted
Mildew and mold can cause health problems for your family members if wood rot is found around window frames or sills. People who are sensitive to molds might suffer from itchy eyes and skin, wheezing, a stuffy nose, and breathing difficulties.
If the rot only affects just a small portion of the frame, you might be able to fix it with wood filler epoxy. However, if the damage extends into a large part of the frame or areas that have decorative elements, such as moulding intersect with other sections of the window, it is likely better to invest in new windows that will help keep your home safe and protected from water damage.
To find out the extent of rot in your window frame take a gentle probe using a putty knife or screwdriver. If you push on the rot, and it gives the rot is likely to have penetrated deeply into the wood. A simple epoxy for filling in the gaps is not enough to repair the damage.
To replace the timber, choose wood that has the same type of moisture content and type as the windows around it. This will ensure that the splice will be robust and won't lead to further issues in the future. If you are not sure about your abilities to do this task, it's always best to consult an expert.
A common alternative to cutting new timber is to treat the existing wooden frame using wood hardener. This is a fantastic way to stop further rot and to stabilize the existing wood. This should be done as soon as is possible after removing the affected wood so that the treatment can be effective.
If the rot in your window is extensive and cannot be repaired with a splice or with a wood hardener, it might be required to replace the entire window to prevent further damage. Although this is a bigger upfront investment, it will be more affordable in the long run. It could also give you the opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient window.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they may look identical, muntins look distinct from Mullions. Understanding the differences between these two parts can help homeowners make sure that they are on the same page with their window company.
Mullions are vertical parts that divide a single pane of glass into two. In earlier times, mullions were necessary to keep smaller glass panes in place to form larger expanses of window glass. Today, mullions are typically used for decorative reasons but can be included as part of double-glazed windows that mimic the appearance of windows with multiple panes without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Muntins are also thin pieces of wood used to divide the panes of window glass. They can be used as a permanent feature within a window or as a removable decorative accent. Muntins are made of metal or wood, depending on their construction. They can be painted or stained to match the colors of windows. In many homes, muntins may be the focal point of a room, adding detail and dimension that enhance the size of a window.
Muntins, though predominantly decorative in nature, can also help to improve home security. They are placed between windows, so an intruder must remove one muntin and breaking the second. In addition, muntins which remain intact help to keep out the elements and debris that would otherwise be able to get into the home.
Few window companies put a lot of effort into differentiating the differences between muntins and mullions. In the end, these terms are often used interchangeably, and are frequently called grilles. This confusion can be confusing to buyers of homes.
Modern windows don't require mullions or muntins, even though they serve structural purposes. Regardless of their function, these window features are crucial to create visually appealing and functional windows. When selecting the best windows for your home, be certain to consider the architectural style of your property and the amount of maintenance you're willing to undertake. Select the type of window that best fits your requirements.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-paned windows are known for their energy efficiency and they also have excellent insulation properties. A crack or break can diminish these benefits, leading to higher heating and cooling costs, condensation and water damage in your home or office.
Double pane windows consist of two sheets of tempered glass, with space between them. The gap is filled with an inert gas such as argon, which prevents heat transfer and also insulates the window. If one of the panes begins to crack or leak the gas will escape and your window will lose its efficiency.
A double pane window that appears hazy or has visible condensation indicates that the window seals have failed and allow in moist air. The air causes silica gels to expand, causing condensation to form within the window. A window that is at this point will likely require replacement.
Many homeowners are concerned about the cost of replacing their double-pane windows however, it's important to remember that replacing them could be more economical in the long in the long run. Repair services are more frequently required for a double-paned window that is damaged, cracked, or leaky, than a new window. It also increases the chance of moisture intrusion. This could cause mold and mildew growth that could affect the health of your family.
Double-pane windows can also boost the value of a house which makes it more attractive to prospective buyers. Double-paned windows offer many other benefits including reduced noise pollution, lower costs for energy and a reduction in your monthly energy bill.
If you are not sure whether your window is a double-pane or single-pane, place an object against the outside of the 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 double-paned windows without needing to replace the entire unit. This can save you time and money.