The Ultimate Glossary For Terms Related To Windowdoctor
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 repair. It is possible to fix windows and enjoy their performance for many years.
The reason for the windows to be cloudy is condensation in the spaces between the glass panes. This can be corrected by cleaning the windows, removing the moisture, and then sealing them.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows can make looking outside your window difficult. They also reduce the amount of natural light that can enter your home. They can also cause water and moisture to accumulate on the glass, which can cause wooden frames and sills to decay over time. If you have windows that are always fogging it's likely to be due to condensation that's trapped between the two panes of your window. This is a common issue, but it isn't something to ignore. Foggy windows can cause mildew, rot and mold to form in your home's frame and decrease energy efficiency.
Condensation occurs when warm, moist air cools on an object that is cold. This shouldn't be a problem with your windows. If you have double-pane insulated windows, you should not experience this problem unless the seal has broken. Foggy windows are an obvious indication of this. It is important to have them checked by a professional in order to determine if they require to be replaced.
There are several DIY solutions that can help you to get rid of foggy windows. Many homeowners suggest installing a dehumidifier near the window in order to eliminate excess moisture. But this doesn't address the underlying issue, as the moisture will continue to accumulate between the window's panes, if the seal is broken.
Drilling holes in the top and bottom of your windowpanes is another common way to combat a foggy glass. Then, you'll insert a desiccant such as silica into the holes in order to absorb moisture between your two window panes. Once the moisture has been eliminated from your window, it is important to let the window dry completely prior to sealing the holes.
While these DIY methods can work however, they're not a lasting solution and you'll likely find that your windows will be fogging up again in the future. Professional window replacement and installation will restore your windows back to their original condition. Contact a reputable window manufacturer today to learn more about how they can repair your windows and help you reduce the humidity in your home.
Rotted Frames
Mold and mildew can cause health problems for your family if wood rot is found around window sills or frames. People who are allergic to molds may experience itchy eyes and skin, wheezing, stuffy nose, and breathing difficulties.
If the rot only affects a small part of the frame, you may be able repair it with wood filler epoxy. If the damage is extensive or if decorative features like mouldings intersect with other parts of the frame, it may be better to purchase replacement windows.
To find out the extent of rot on your window frame you can gently test it with a putty knife screwdriver. If you force your way into the rot and observe it sways easily, it's likely that the rot has gotten deep into the wood and will not be able to be corrected by using a simple wood filler epoxy.
To replace the timber, choose wood that has the same type of moisture content and type as the windows around it. This will ensure that the splice will be sturdy and will not cause further problems in the future. It is recommended to hire an expert if not sure about your ability to complete this task.
A common alternative to cutting new timber is to treat the existing wooden frame using wood hardener. This is a great method to prevent further rot and stabilize the existing wood. This should be done promptly after removing any rotten wood to allow the treatment time to be effective.
If the rot is extensive and cannot be repaired by a splice or a wood hardener, replacing the entire window could be necessary to avoid further damage to your home. It may be a greater cost upfront but it will pay off in the end. You could also consider upgrading to windows that are more energy efficient.
Muntins & Mullions
While they might appear identical, muntins look distinct from Mullions. Understanding the distinctions between these two parts will help homeowners make sure they're on the same page with their window installer.
Mullions are vertical component that separates a single window into two panes. In the past they were used to hold smaller glass panes together to form larger expanses of window glass. Today, mullions are typically used for decorative reasons but could be part of double-glazed systems that mimic the appearance of multiple-pane windows without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Muntins can also be narrow strips of wood that separate windows into smaller panes. They can be put in as a permanent feature within windows or as a decorative accent that can be removed. Based on the material they are constructed from muntins are made from either metal or wood. They can be stained or painted to match the color scheme of a window. In many homes, muntins can be the focal point of a room, adding detail and dimension to amplify the visual dimension of windows.
While they are primarily decorative, they can provide some security benefits to your home. They are placed between the windows, and an intruder must remove one of them, and breaking the other. Muntins also help to keep dust and weather from entering a house when they are in good condition.
A few window companies invest a lot of energy to distinguish the distinctions between mullions and muntins. This is why these terms are often used interchangeably, and are colloquially called grilles. It's best to avoid this confusion as it can be confusing for buyers of homes.
Modern windows do not require muntins or mullions even although they are useful for structural purposes. Whatever their purpose, these window features are crucial to create visually appealing and functional windows. When selecting the best windows for your home, be sure to consider the architectural style of your property and the amount of maintenance you are willing to undertake. Select the window style that best fits your requirements.
Double-Pane Windows
Double-pane windows are known for their energy efficiency and insulating properties. Unfortunately cracks or breaks in the window can significantly diminut the benefits of these windows and cause higher heating and cooling expenses as well as condensation and water damage to your home or office.
Double pane windows are made up of two sheets of glass that have a gap in between, which is typically filled with inert gasses like argon to block heat transfer and to further insulate the window. If one pane develops cracks or leaks, gas can escape, and the window will be less efficient.
If a double pane windows appears foggy or has visible condensation, the window seals have failed and allowing in moist air. This air causes the silica gel pellets which are located between the two panes to swell up, which causes condensation in the window. A window that is at this level will probably require replacement.
Many homeowners are worried about the cost of replacing their double-pane windows but it's important to think that replacement could be more affordable in the long term. Double-pane windows that are damaged, broken, or leaking will require repair more often than a brand new window. It also increases the risk of moisture intrusion. This could lead to mold and mildew that could impact your family's health.
Another reason to consider replacing your double pane windows is that they increase the value of your home, which can make it more attractive to future buyers. Double-paned windows also offer a variety of advantages, including less noise pollution, lower energy bills and a reduction in your monthly energy costs.
If you're not sure whether your window has a double or single pane, put an object against the outside 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 double-pane window and decide whether it is in need of being repaired or replaced. A qualified window doctor is able to repair a double-pane window, without replacing the entire window, saving you time and money.
