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 repairs. It is, however, possible to have windows repaired and still enjoy their performance for a long time to come.
Foggy windows are caused by the presence of moisture in the gaps between glass panes. This can be fixed by cleaning the windows, removing the moisture, and then sealing them.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make viewing outside your window difficult. They also reduce the amount of natural light that is able to enter your home. They can also cause moisture and water to build up on the glass, leading to wooden frames and sills to rot over time. If your window is constantly getting fogged up, it is likely condensation trapped between the two panes. This is a common issue but shouldn't be ignored. Foggy windows can lead to rot, mold, and mildew growth in the frame of your home, and the loss of energy efficiency.
Condensation happens when moist, warm air cools on a cold surface however this isn't intended to occur in windows. This problem shouldn't happen when you have double-paned insulated windows unless the seal is 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 need to be replaced.
The good news is that there are a variety of DIY solutions that can help you get rid of foggy windows. Many homeowners recommend placing a dehumidifier close to the window to eliminate excess moisture. However, this will not resolve the issue, since moisture remains trapped between the windowpanes when the seal is damaged.
Drilling holes into the top and bottom of your windowpanes is another common way to deal with a foggy glass. Then, you'll place an insulator such as silica into the holes in order to absorb moisture between your two window panes. After the moisture is removed it is recommended to allow the window to completely dry before sealing the holes.
While these DIY techniques can be effective however, they're not a lasting solution and you'll likely see your windows get a second chance to fog up in the near future. Professional window replacement and installation can restore your windows back to their original state. Contact a reputable window manufacturer today to learn more about how they can fix your windows and reduce the humidity in your home.
Rotted Frames
Wood rot around window frames and sills can lead to mildew or mold, which is harmful to your family's health. Mold sensitivity can cause itchy skin and eyes and wheezing, as well as breathing difficulties.
If the rot is confined to a small portion of the frame, it may be able of being repaired by using an epoxy wood filler. If the damage is severe or if decorative features like mouldings intersect with other parts of the frame it is possible to invest in replacement windows.
If you want to know the extent of the rot that has occurred in your window frame, try using a screwdriver or putty blade. If you push into the rot and notice it sways easily, it is likely that the rot has penetrated deep into the wood and will not be able to be fixed with a wood filler epoxy.
Ideally, you should use wood that is the same type and moisture content as the surrounding windows to splice in replacement timber. This will ensure that the splice is durable and won't cause problems in the future. It is recommended to hire an expert if not sure of your ability to complete this task.
Wood hardener is a popular alternative to splicing fresh timber into the frame of wood. This is a good method of stabilizing the existing timber and prevent further problems with decay. This must be done as quickly as possible after removing the affected rotten timber so that the treatment can take effect.
If the rot is severe and is not able to be fixed using a splice, or wood hardener replacing the entire window might be necessary to avoid further damage to your home. This may be a bigger expense initially, but it will be worth it in the end. You may also opt to upgrade to windows that are more energy efficient.
Muntins & Mullions
Although they may look similar, muntins are distinct from mullions. Understanding the differences between these two components will allow homeowners to ensure that they're on the same page with their window contractor.
Mullions are vertical parts that divide a single pane of glass into two. In the past, mullions sheltered smaller glass panes that were then arranged to form larger expanses. Today, mullions are generally used for decorative purposes but can be included as part of double-glazed windows that mimic the appearance of windows with multiple panes without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Muntins can also be narrow strips of wood that separate windows into smaller panes. They can be used as an element that is permanent or a decorative accent. Muntins are made of wood or metal according to their construction. They can be painted or stained to match the window's color scheme. Muntins are often the centerpiece of rooms in many homes. They give depth and character to a room, which increases its visual appeal.
Muntins, while mostly decorative, can also help to improve home security. They are usually placed between window units so an intruder must remove one muntin, then breaking the other. Muntins can also help keep debris and weather from entering homes when they are in good condition.
A few window companies invest a lot of energy in separating the distinctions between mullions and muntins. In the end, these terms are often used interchangeably and even frequently called grilles. This confusion can be confusing for buyers of homes.
It's also worth noting that while mullions and muntins serve as structural elements, they are not required in modern windows. These window features are essential for both functional and aesthetically pleasing windows. When selecting the best windows for your home, make sure to take into consideration the style of your home's architecture and the amount of maintenance you are willing to do. Choose the kind of window that best represents these factors.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-pane windows are famous for their energy efficiency and insulating properties. A break or crack can decrease these benefits, leading to an increase in cooling and heating costs as well as water damage and condensation at your office or home.
Double pane windows are made up of two glass sheets with gaps in between which is usually filled with inert gases such as argon to block heat transfer and further insulate the window. However, if one of the panes develops a crack or leak, the gas will escape and your window will lose its efficiency.
A double pane window that appears hazy or shows visible condensation indicates that the window seals have failed and are letting in moist air. This air causes the silica gel pellets that are in between the two panes to expand and cause condensation inside the window. If a window reaches this point, it will need to be replaced.
Many homeowners are worried about the cost of replacing their double-pane windows but it's important to consider that replacement could be more economical in the long run. Double-pane windows that are damaged, cracked, or leaking will require repair more often than a brand new window. It also increases the likelihood of water intrusion, which can lead to mold and mildew growth, which can affect your family's health.
Another reason to think about replacing your double pane windows is that they can increase the value of your home, which will make it more attractive to future buyers. Double-paned windows also offer a variety of advantages like less noise pollution, less energy bills and a reduction in your monthly energy bills.
If you're not sure whether your window has a double or single pane, place an object against the glass. If you only see one reflection, you have single-pane windows. Two reflections indicate that the window is double-pane. A professional can assess the quality of your window and decide if it requires replacement or repaired. A qualified window doctor is able to repair a double-pane window without replacing the entire unit thus saving time and money.