Replacing your windows is an excellent opportunity to install energy efficient units. High-efficiency windows can lower heating and cooling costs by 15%-37%.
A window installer will determine your needs and provide a quote for the job. The quote should include the specific window brand, size and model, plus any add-on features. Contact Window Replacement Rockville MD now!
Glass windows break for a variety of reasons, including accidents and natural disasters, and they can be costly to repair. Luckily, there are ways to prevent accidents from occurring, and safety measures can be in place to reduce the likelihood of damage during window replacement.
Temperature Fluctuations
Glass is a poor thermal conductor, and sudden temperature changes can cause stress fractures in the glass. As the glass warms up, it expands, which can lead to stress forces that crack the glass. When the glass cools down, it contracts, which also leads to stress fractures.
Wind Pressure
Wind pressure exacerbates existing minor flaws in glass, causing them to widen and expand. While this is not a permanent form of glass damage, it can be a significant safety hazard and should be repaired immediately.
Scratches/Stained Glass
Light surface scratches and stains are easily addressed with a professional glass scratch restoration service. However, deeper or stained scratches may require a new pane.
Leaking Window
A leaking window is a serious problem that can cause water damage, mold growth, and increase energy bills. Often, the leak can be traced to a cracked or deteriorated seal between the frame and sill. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy fix with silicone caulk or weather stripping.
Peeling Paint
Dried paint is not only unsightly but can allow water and air to seep in, robbing your home of energy and potentially causing mildew and rot around the window. While there are a few ways to deal with it once it happens, preventative measures can save you time, effort and money in the long run.
Using the proper chemical solutions can effectively break down paint and soften it for easier scraping or wiping away. Choosing the wrong solvents, however, can damage or discolor glass. To avoid this, it’s always best to start with a weaker solution and fall back on stronger ones only if necessary.
When using a solvent to remove stubborn paint, be sure to protect the surrounding area with tarps or plastic sheets. Additionally, be sure to ventilate the area and take care not to accidentally drip or spill solvent on the windows. It’s also wise to use a respirator if the fumes become too strong for you to handle.
If soapy water and a razor blade aren’t sufficient, you may need to employ a power scraper. When this is necessary, use the blade with caution to avoid scratching or damaging the windows. Once the paint is removed, rinse and dry the windows thoroughly to prevent spots or streaks.
Taking these preventative measures will not only ensure your windows look great, but it can save you time, effort and money in a long run. If your windows are showing signs of age, a window replacement company can help you upgrade to new construction windows that are insulative, maintenance free and come in a variety of colors and styles that will match the style of your home.
Water Damage
If the drywall around your window is saturated with water stains, paint or drywall flakes it may be time for a full-frame window replacement. This is the most involved and costly option, but is typically the best solution if there is structural damage due to water leaks.
Leaky windows can do more than just damage the walls and ceilings around them, they can also cause mold to grow. Mold not only destroys your home’s structure, but it can also be detrimental to your health.
The first thing you need to do when a window is leaking is to take a look at the sash and frame. Look for the obvious signs of water damage – rusty nailheads, cracks and chips in the glass, and sagging drywall. These are all a sure sign of a leaky window.
Next, you need to check for leaks outside the window itself. You want to make sure the sill at the bottom of the window is pitched downward to allow water to drain to the exterior and that all drainage holes are clear of dirt and debris (you can use a small wire to unplug the weep holes in the frame bottom).
Finally, you should also examine your roof and siding for any signs of a leak. Your gutters might be clogged, and you might need to replace your shingles or fascia boards. If you find any water spots or a musty odor in the room around your windows, this is another indication that you might need to invest in a full-frame window replacement. In this case, you will need to hire a professional that specializes in window installation. They will be able to inspect your home, determine the source of the leak, and make the necessary repairs.
Rotted Frames
Wooden window frames can be vulnerable to rot due to the way they sit in a home and are exposed to moisture. The best way to protect your windows from this is by implementing routine maintenance and conducting regular inspections. Paint and a good sealant can also help. This will act as a barrier against moisture and slow the deterioration of the wood. Another way to protect wood is by ensuring proper drainage and diverting water away from the window frames.
Signs of rotting include a wooden frame exterior that feels soft or spongy, crumbly, or brittle to the touch. You may also notice a musty smell or see mold along the outside of the window frames. If the rot is caught early, it can be repaired by splicing in fresh timber to replace the damaged sections. However, if the rot has advanced, it’s often best to replace the entire window.
Leaving a window with rotted frame in place can eventually cause the wood to rot completely, leading to leaks and serious structural damage within your home. Additionally, rotted wood can create mildew and mold, which pose health hazards for people who are sensitive to these substances.
You can check for rot in your window frame by pressing down on the wood. Healthy wood will feel solid and will not depress easily. A spongy or brittle feeling is an indication of wood rot and must be addressed immediately. When splicing in new wood, make sure to use timber that matches the existing profiles of the window frame so it will not be visible or compromise the strength of the window. You should also ensure that the splice doesn’t enter an existing joint to prevent moisture from entering the rotted areas and causing further problems.
Muntins & Mullions
It’s easy to confuse muntins and mullions, especially because both are used to describe narrow strips of wood that separate windows into multiple panes. But, in the case of window replacement or repair, knowing the difference is important. The distinction is significant because a mullion is a structural component that divides large windows into two units, while muntins are more decorative elements.
Historically, mullions and muntins were necessary for structural support because early glass production was limited. Today, they are purely decorative features that can be added to double-hung and casement windows. They’re also often referred to as grilles, which is a more general term that encompasses both mullions and muntins.
If you’re noticing that your older windows aren’t opening and closing properly, a faulty mullion or muntin is probably to blame. When a mullion or muntin is rotten, it can cause the sash to break or become stuck in a closed position, making it impossible to open or close the window. A professional can repair a damaged mullion or muntin by scraping away the old putty, sanding it down, and putting new putty in its place.
When choosing a replacement window with a mullion or muntin, it’s important to consider the home’s design style and decorating preferences. For example, muntins are popular with homeowners who have Craftsman or Colonial-style homes, Victorian-style homes, and classic/modern farmhouses. They can be crafted into intricate grid designs that complement these types of architectural styles or into chunky, minimalistic designs that work well with modern decor. In contrast, mullions are more versatile and can be installed in many different types of homes. While they’re not as visually striking, they can add a classic look to any type of house.
