When you replace your windows, it’s important to choose a contractor that carries the proper licensure and insurance. Also, verify the windows you select are efficient to help save on energy costs. Call Window Replacement Rockville MD for trusted advice.
Full-frame installations entail replacing the entire window frame while pocket replacements install new windows within existing frames. Both have advantages but full-frame installation is more costly.
Wood rot can be a major problem for window frames, as it occurs when moisture infiltrates the boards and is unable to dry out. This can lead to fungal growth, which is a significant health and safety concern, particularly if the decay spreads to structural parts of your home. The best way to identify potential rot is to regularly check the windowsill for discolored or peeling paint, as this often serves as an early warning sign. Then, you can quickly take steps to address the issue before it worsens.
Fortunately, rot is easy to repair for homeowners who are comfortable working with hand tools like a drill and wood screws or nails. Once the rotten wood is removed, you can then fill in the area with epoxy, which is durable enough to withstand weather and temperature changes. You should also use a wood hardener to stabilize and strengthen the remaining wood fibers before painting.
Another common cause of rot is drafty windows, which indicate that the frame is losing its ability to protect your home from the elements. Wood rot can also result in shrinkage, which causes the sashes to rattle and make it difficult or impossible to open the window. If you notice any of these issues, it is a good idea to consult with a professional about the potential need for replacement windows.
While some rot is minor and can be repaired with epoxy, more severe cases require full-frame replacement to prevent further damage and ensure the integrity of the window structure. A full window replacement will also offer numerous benefits, including improved energy efficiency, higher property value, and better indoor air quality. When you decide between repair and replacement, consider the benefits of each option to determine which one is right for your home. Then, contact an experienced professional to ensure that your new windows are properly installed and sealed. They will be able to offer you many years of safe, reliable service. They can also help you select the perfect new windows to suit your home’s style and needs.
Muntins & Mullions
Often confused with one another, muntins and mullions are distinct design elements that have significant impacts on the appearance and function of windows. While they serve different purposes, they can also be used in conjunction to achieve more complex aesthetic goals for your space.
As the name suggests, a window muntin is a vertical divider that separates individual glass panes in your window frame. It can sit horizontally, on a diagonal, or curved, and it is sometimes designed to complement the shapes of the outer windows in the frame. Window companies offer muntins in a variety of styles to match the specific architectural style and design preferences of your home, including grid designs that lend themselves to Colonial and Cape Cod-style homes, intricate Victorian grid patterns that complement curved or arched windows in Victorian homes, or minimalistic versions that can suit contemporary interior design trends.
Mullions, on the other hand, serve a more structural role. They are used to support larger windows by creating a supportive gridwork and distributing the weight of the glazing. They are also used to combine different window types within a single frame, for example pairing fixed windows with casement windows in a large bay or cathedral-style window installation.
Although they serve different functions, a window needs both muntins and mullions to function properly. If the inner structure of your windows is damaged and can no longer hold your glass in place, it may be necessary to replace them. Window replacement experts can remove the damaged parts of your window and repair the surrounding wood, siding, insulation, studs, and sheathing.
If your windows are mullion-free, they may need to have a transom installed to allow for additional light and ventilation in the room. A damaged or rotted drip cap can allow moisture to get inside your window, causing a host of problems, including water damage to the studs and sheathing, which can then be transferred to the interior walls of your home. Replacing a drip cap is an easy DIY fix that can save you money on future repairs.
Chipped Paint
Regardless of whether your windows are new or old, the paint on the frames is susceptible to natural wear and tear. Paint that starts to chip means that it is time for a fresh coat. The longer you wait to do this, the more work and maintenance your window will need down the road.
The most common cause of chipping paint on wooden windowsills and frames is moisture. Rain wicks up the sill and down the frame and, unless it is sealed, can seep into the wood and compromise the paint film. Moisture can also lead to rot, which means the wood will eventually need replacing.
In addition, paint that has been compromised by water will need to be sanded and primed before another coat can be applied. Moisture can also damage and deteriorate the caulking that seals the frame and sill. Generally, these problems can be solved with an updated caulking job that will better prevent moisture from damaging the frame.
Another common problem with painted windows is damaged casing. The casing protects the glass from damage and adds to your home’s curb appeal, so it is important that it looks nice. Casing that is damaged, cracked, rotted, or missing altogether can be repaired by our carpentry team without the need to replace your windows.
It is possible to get some of the same look of newer replacement windows with a bit of repair and a fresh coat of paint. However, if the frames are damaged in other ways, it is typically more cost-effective and efficient to have them replaced.
If you have older, pre-1978 windows that need to be replaced, it is important to hire a certified lead paint removal contractor. Attempting to scrape or sand these windows yourself can create hazardous lead dust and chips, which are dangerous to adults and children in your home.
While repairing or replacing your windows can be done with little to no expense, it is best to have a professional do the job to ensure that the results will be long-lasting and satisfactory. Contact our window replacement company to learn more about our services and to schedule your free consultation today.
Water Damage
Water damage from leaky windows is a common problem that should never be left unattended. It can lead to rotting in wood window frames, warping, and even mold development inside your home. While you can have the window repaired, it may be best to replace it entirely to avoid further damage.
The first sign of a leaky window is often damp walls or floors around the area of the window. You may also notice that the paint or wallpaper is bubbling or peeling. While repainting can be a quick fix, it will not resolve the problem and the moisture is likely to return.
Another common sign of a leaky window is dark brown or yellow stains in the areas around your windows. The stains can also appear on ceilings and other surfaces. Water stains can be difficult to clean and are a good indication that the window frame needs to be replaced.
Window leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, including improper flashing or a lack of drainage around the window. The sill of a window should slope away from the house to help with drainage, but often this is not done correctly. Poor flashing can also cause leaks, especially if it is not properly caulked.
A leaking window can also indicate that the seal between your double or triple-pane glass is broken. This will allow air to enter your home and make it less energy efficient. A replacement window can be installed to provide insulation and save money on your utility bills.
During your inspection look for any signs of damage or rot to the window frame. You should also look at the trim or exterior cladding that holds your window to see if there are any gaps or cracks. If so, these can allow moisture into the wall or floor around the window.