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Should You Call a Window Repairman? Window repairmen can help save money with a new, energy efficient window installation. But you need to think about your budget and if it's more beneficial to replace your windows. Problems like rotting frames and seals that break down can make it more expensive replacing your windows. Find out more about the most common issues with windows to determine whether you need a handyman. Cracked or Broken Panes A crack in your window's glass could be caused by a violent storm or a pebble taken off by a lawnmower or even a vase knocked over. Even if it's just a small crack it is important to fix it quickly before it gets any worse or the glass breaks. Glass that has cracked is an hazard to safety, since it can cause you or your family to get injured by shattering pieces. Repairing a cracked window using clear tape or a strong adhesive to secure the glass. For large cracks, it's best to get two-part epoxy that contains an adhesive and a resin, such as caulk. To apply the epoxy, prepare your work area by covering the flooring with cardboard sheets or a drop cloth. Take out the old glass and scrub it clean. You should also cordon off the area and tell your family members to stay clear from the work area until you're done. Wear safety gloves and gloves to avoid handling glass pieces that have broken. Once the broken window has been removed, remove any molding around the frame that's keeping it in place, as well as the glazing putty or glazing points that keep the glass in place. You can usually take off the glazing points using pliers. Then, you apply a cross-patch of masking tape over the crack to stop it from spreading or shattering. Apply a second layer on both sides of the crack to increase its strength and stability. A bad crack in double-paned windows could compromise the gas that is circulating between the panes, making your home less energy efficient. upvc window repair near me can also use a plastic sheet on top of the glass to create an insulation. This is the simplest solution to repair a cracked pane of glass. For more serious damage, such as a gap between the panes of the window, it is best to call a window repairman. They will be able to assess the issue and suggest the best method for fixing your window. In some instances, a new window may be necessary. In this case, a window technician can assist you in choosing the right type of replacement and install it efficiently and economically. Water Damage Over time, windows can develop leaks, which if not treated can cause significant problems. These problems include water damage to ceilings and walls and even mold. Water stains or peeling of paint near or around the window are typically the first indications of an unsound window. The problem may also be evident by puddles of water forming underneath the window. It's important that you call a window technician when you notice any of these indications. A window repairman will be able to identify the source of a leak and repair it in order to prevent it from happening again in the future. Leaking windows are usually caused by deteriorating seals and caulking, which allows water to penetrate into the frame or sill. Because they are frequently exposed to direct sunlight or rain windows are especially susceptible to moisture. Water that leaks through the wood can cause rot and structural damage. The most efficient way to fix the leaky window is to caulking the area around the perimeter of the window. The majority of homeowners can do this with a caulking gun or utility knife. Start by working on the exterior, then move towards the interior. A high-quality exterior caulk can last a long time and will be easy to clean and maintain. In more serious instances the window repair expert could replace the seals and caulking, or completely re-caulk the window to stop water from getting into the house. In certain cases, this might necessitate the replacement of the entire window or structural repairs to the building or roof. A window repairman should also be able to examine and repair a leaky or hard-to-reach window. This includes windows on the upper floors or in dormers and the roof of a home. While these types of windows are not as common as standard windows but they're still a vital element of any home or business and must be maintained in a timely manner. It can be difficult to pinpoint the cause of a window that is leaky and it's therefore important to look for other indicators of a problem like siding or roof leaks that could pass through wall studs and joists to reach windows. Frames that are Rotted A rotten window frame can expose your home to further moisture, which could cause damage to the wood. Unchecked rot could cause mold growth, deteriorating insulating materials and framing components to deteriorate and compromise the strength of your home. You may have to replace your entire frame and window depending on the severity of rot. This can be costly however it is essential when there is significant decay and rot in the frame. If the rot is limited to a portion of the frame, a window repairman may be able to restore the area using epoxy filler. Most home improvement centers carry this product. Before applying the filler, make sure that the affected area is clean and dry. You should also prepare the new area by applying a coat of epoxy consolidant to protect the repair and avoid future decay. Apply the new filler using a putty blade when the wood is dry. After applying the filler, you can make it into a shape that matches its surroundings. Allow it to dry before sanding. After that you can paint and prime your window frame to complete the repair. Also, you should be on the lookout for any rot around your window's board sheathing. Caulk should be used to fill any gaps in the event that you spot cracks or breaks. This will prevent water from entering your home and causing damage. However, you should make use of your tape measure prior to applying the caulk to determine exact measurements of the boards that have rotted. This will ensure that the new board you purchase is the correct size. If your sash is stuck due to moisture levels that are high it is possible to clean the sash channels with a wood chisel. You'll also require some grime remover. Once the channel is clean it can be widened by inserting a piece of medium sandpaper, wrapped around a wooden block into the grooves where the sash binds. Once the sash is loosened, you can lubricate with window wax. Muntins or Mullions Many homeowners are confused by the terminology used in window construction. This is normal. The terms “mullion” and “muntin”, while similar have different meanings in the context of window construction. A muntin (US) or glazing bar (UK) is a second framing element that holds multiple panes of glass within one window sash, or door panel, and creates divisions within the window unit. They are decorative and can be seen in various architectural styles. Historically, muntins provided structural support to older buildings that could not be able to support the weight of large windows. Nowadays, they are mostly decorative and can be found on replacement windows, doors and wooden panels. If you look at a traditional window in Europe, it's made with thin vertical dividers called muntins or mullins. The dividers are typically constructed of metal or wood and serve as a frame for the glass panes. Some dividers come with grid-like designs. While muntins are largely decorative, mullions are utilized for both aesthetic and practical purposes. Mullions can give a unique look to single-pane windows. With the addition of tracks and hinges they can also transform into casement units which can be opened or closed. If a mullion or a muntin is damaged, it could cause damage to the entire window structure. Often, the wall, siding, and the insulation around the window will need to be replaced. A professional window repairman with experience will inspect your window to determine whether the damage can be repaired, or if new windows are needed. By having a professional look over your window and its surroundings to avoid unnecessary expenses and headaches later on. Contact a reputable window company such as Renewal by Andersen ® of Rapid City, if you are concerned regarding the condition of your windows. Our experts in window installation are available to assist you!