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 possible to fix windows and enjoy their performance for many years.
The reason for the windows to be cloudy is moisture in the spaces between the glass panes. This can be addressed by cleaning the windows to remove the moisture, then replacing the seals on the windows.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make viewing outside your window difficult, and reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your home. They can also cause moisture and water to build up on the glass, which can cause wooden frames and sills to begin to rot over time. If you have windows that are constantly leaking it's probably due to condensation trapped in between the two panes of your window. While this is a common problem, it's not something to ignore. Foggy windows can lead to mold, rot and mildew growth within the frame of your home, and a loss of energy efficiency.
Condensation occurs when warm, humid air cools on a surface that is cold. This shouldn't be a problem with your windows. This issue shouldn't occur if you have double-paned insulated windows, unless the seal has been broken. Foggy windows are an obvious indication of this. It is important to have them examined by a professional in order 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 get rid of windows that are hazy. Many homeowners recommend using a dehumidifier near the window to get rid of excess moisture. This will not solve the issue as water remains trapped between the window panes after the seal has been damaged.
Drilling holes into the top and bottom of your window panes is a different method to combat a foggy glass. You'll then insert desiccants, such as silica gel in the holes to absorb moisture between the two panes of your window. Once the moisture is gone from your window, it's crucial to let the window dry out completely before sealing the holes.
While these DIY techniques can be effective, they're not a permanent solution, and you'll probably see your windows be prone to fogging in the near future. Professional window replacement and installation will restore your windows to their original state. Contact a reputable company to learn how they can repair your windows and reduce the humidity inside your home.
Rotted Frames
Wood rot around windows' frames and sills could result in mildew or even mold, which could be harmful to your family's health. Mold sensitivity can cause itchy eyes and skin as well as wheezing and breathing issues.
If the rot is restricted to a tiny portion of the frame, it could be able of being repaired by using an epoxy for wood filler. If the damage is significant or if decorative elements such as mouldings intersect with other parts of the frame, it may be better to invest in replacement windows.
To assess the extent of the rot on your window frame you can gently test it with a putty knife screwdriver. If you push into the rot and notice it sways easily, it's a sign that the rot has gotten deep into the wood and will not be able to be repaired with a simple wood filler epoxy.
To replace the timber, you should choose wood that has the same moisture content and the same type as the windows around it. This will ensure that the splice will be sturdy and will not cause any problems in the future. If you are not sure about your ability to complete this work, it is always best to consult a professional.
An alternative to splicing in new timber is to treat the existing wooden frame using wood hardener. This is an effective method of stabilizing the existing timber and avoid further issues with decay. This should be done as soon as possible after removing any decayed wood to allow the treatment time to work.
If the rot in your window is severe and can't be repaired with a splice or using a wood hardener, it may be necessary to replace the entire window to avoid further damage. It could be a larger cost upfront, but it will be worth it in the end. You can also upgrade to a window that is more energy efficient.
Muntins & Mullions
While they look similar, muntins are distinct from Mullions. Knowing the differences between these two parts will help homeowners make sure they're on the same page with their window contractor.
Mullions are vertical components that divide a single pane of glass into two. In earlier times, mullions were necessary to hold smaller glass panes together to form larger expanses of window glass. Today, mullions are generally used for decorative reasons but could be part of double-glazed windows that mimic the appearance of multiple-pane windows without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Alternatively, muntins are narrow strips of wood that divide the window glass into smaller panes. They can be used as an ongoing feature or as a removable decorative accent. Muntins are constructed of metal or wood depending on the material they are constructed with. They can be stained or painted to match the colors of windows. Muntins are often the central point of rooms in a lot of homes. They add dimension and detail to a room and increase the visual dimension of a room.
Muntins are mostly decorative they can also improve home security. Since they sit in between windows, a break-in could require breaking one and then removing the second to gain entry. In addition, muntins that remain intact can aid in keeping out the elements and debris that would otherwise be able to get into the interior of a house.
Very few window companies make an effort to distinguish between muntins and mullions and other kinds of mullions. These terms are often used interchangeably and even called grilles in the context of colloquial usage. It is important to avoid this confusion, as it can be confusing for homebuyers.
It's also worth noting that mullions and muntins serve structural functions, they are not required in modern windows. Whatever their purpose, these window features are essential to make functional and aesthetically pleasing windows. When selecting the right windows for your home, you should consider the architectural style and maintenance requirements of your property. Select the window style that best suits your needs.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-paned windows are renowned for their energy efficiency and they also have great insulation properties. Unfortunately cracks or breaks in the window could reduce the benefits of these windows and cause higher heating and cooling costs as well as condensation and water damage to your office or home.
door and window doctor are made up of two sheets of tempered glass, with an opening between them. This gap is filled with an inert gas like argon, which blocks heat transfer and insulates the window. If one pane develops cracks or leaks, gas will escape, and your window will be less efficient.
If a double-pane window appears foggy or has visible condensation, the window seals are failing and allowing in moist air. This air can cause silica gel to swell, causing condensation to form in the window. A window that is at this level is likely to need to be replaced.
Many homeowners are concerned about the cost of replacing their double-pane windows however, it's important to remember that replacement may be more affordable in the long run. Repair services will be required more often for a double-paned window that is damaged or cracked or leaky than a new window. It also increases the likelihood of moisture intrusion, which could lead to mold and mildew that could affect the health of your family.
Double-pane windows can also boost the value of a house and make it more attractive to potential buyers. Double pane windows also provide many other advantages, such as reduced noise pollution and lower energy costs.
If you're not sure whether your window is double-pane or single-pane, place an item against the glass's exterior. If you only see one reflection, you have single pane windows. Two reflections are indicative of that the window is double-pane. A professional can assess the quality of your double-pane window and decide if it needs to be repaired or replaced. A trained window doctor will usually be able repair double-paned windows without having to replace the entire unit. This can save you time and money.