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. However, it is possible to have windows repaired and continue to enjoy their performance for years to come.
Moisture in the spaces between the glass panes causes windows to become foggy. This can be fixed by cleaning the windows to get rid of the moisture and sealing the windows.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make seeing out of your window difficult and reduce the amount of natural light that is able to enter your home. Water and moisture can accumulate on the glass and cause wooden frames and sills to begin to rot. If your window is always fogged up, the cause is probably condensation that has accumulated between the two panes. This is a frequent issue, but it should not be ignored. The condensation of windows can cause rot, mildew, and mold to grow within the frame of your home and decrease energy efficiency.
Condensation occurs when warm, moist, humid air cools down on a surface that is cold. This shouldn't be a problem with your windows. If you have double-pane windows that are insulated, you will not have this issue unless the seal is damaged. Windows that are smudgey are a clear sign of this problem. It's important to get them checked by a professional in order to determine if they require to be replaced.
There are many DIY solutions that can help you deal with foggy Windows. Many homeowners recommend installing a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window to eliminate excess moisture. However, this won't solve the underlying issue, as the moisture will continue to accumulate between the window panes when the seal is damaged.
Another method of dealing with a foggy window is drilling holes in the top and bottom of each windowpane. You'll then place an desiccant, like silica gel, into the holes to help absorb the moisture between the two panes of your window. Once the moisture has been eliminated from your window, it is important to allow the window to dry completely prior to sealing the holes.
While these DIY techniques can be effective but they're not a long-term solution and you'll likely find that your windows will get a second chance to fog up in the future. In the long run, a professional window replacement and installation service is your best option for restoring your windows back to their original condition. Contact a trusted window company today to learn more about how they can fix your windows and reduce the amount of humidity inside your home.
Rotted Frames
Wood rot in window frames and sills can cause mildew or mold, which could be harmful for your family's health. People who are sensitive to mold may have itchy eyes and skin, wheezing and a stuffy nose, and breathing difficulties.
If the rot is confined to a small portion of the frame, it may be able to be fixed by using an epoxy wood filler. If the damage is significant or if decorative elements such as mouldings are interspersed with other parts of the window frame, it might be more beneficial to invest in replacement windows.
If you're looking to determine the extent of the rot that has occurred in your window frame, you can use a screwdriver or putty blade. If you force your way into the rot and observe it is able to move easily, it's a sign that the rot has penetrated deeply into the wood and will not be able to be fixed by using a simple wood filler epoxy.
Ideally, you will select wood that is of the same type and moisture content as the windows around it to splice the replacement timber. This will ensure the splice is durable and will not cause any issues in the future. If you are not sure about your ability to complete this work, it is 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 way to stop further rot and to stabilize the existing wood. This should be done promptly after removing any decayed wood to allow the treatment time to work.
If the rot is serious and cannot be repaired with a splice or wood hardener replacing the entire window might be necessary to prevent further damage to your home. It may be a greater expense initially but it will pay off in the long run. You can also upgrade to windows that are more energy efficient.
Muntins & Mullions
While they look identical, muntins look different from Mullions. Understanding the distinctions 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 split a single piece of glass into two. In the past the mullions were required to keep smaller glass panes in place to form larger expanses of window glass. Mullions are used today for decorative purposes, but they are also a part in double-glazed windows to mimic the appearance of multi-paned windows while preserving energy-efficiency.
Muntins can also be narrow strips of wood that split windows into smaller panes. They can be used as an ongoing feature or as a removable decorative accent. Based on the material they are constructed from muntins are made from either metal or wood. 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 visual dimension of windows.
Muntins, while mostly decorative but they also serve to enhance security in homes. They are placed between windows, so a break-in requires removing one muntin and breaking the other. In addition, muntins which remain intact aid in keeping out the elements and other debris that could be able to get into the home.
The majority of window manufacturers do not invest a lot of time in separating the distinctions between muntins and mullions. They are often used interchangeably and are sometimes referred to as grilles in the context of colloquial usage. This confusion can be confusing to homeowners.
It's also worth mentioning that mullions and muntins are used for structural purposes but they aren't required in modern windows. These window features are important for both functional and visually appealing windows. When choosing the ideal windows for your home, you must consider the architectural style and maintenance level of your property. Then, choose the type of window that best reflects these aspects.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-paned windows are known for their energy efficiency, and also for their excellent insulation properties. Unfortunately the possibility of a break or crack in the window could significantly reduce the benefits of these windows and cause increased heating and cooling costs as well as condensation and water damage to your home or office.
Double pane windows consist of two glass sheets with gaps in between which is typically filled with inert gases such as Argon to stop heat transfer and also to insulate the window. If the window doctors develops cracks or leaks, gas will escape and your window will be less efficient.
If a double pane window appears cloudy or has visible condensation, the window seals are failing and allowing in humid air. This air can cause the silica gel pellets that are located between the two panes of glass to swell up, which causes condensation inside the window. If a window gets to this point, it will need to be replaced.
Many homeowners are worried about the cost to replace their double-pane windows. However, it's crucial to consider that replacing the windows may be more economical in the long run. A double-pane window that is damaged, cracked, or leaking will require repairs more often than a new window. It could also increase the risk of moisture infiltration, which could cause mold or mildew development.
Another reason to consider replacing your double pane windows is that they increase the value of your home, which will increase its appeal to potential buyers. Double-pane windows also offer numerous other advantages, such as reduced noise pollution and lower energy bills.
If you're not sure if your window has a double or single pane, put an object against the glass. If you see one reflection, you have single pane windows. Two reflections indicate a double-pane window. A professional can evaluate the integrity of your window and whether it is in need of replacement or repaired. A trained window doctor will usually be able to repair a double-paned window without having to replace the entire unit. This could save you time and money.