Window Replacement Ellicott City, MD provides a great opportunity to upgrade your home’s appearance and improve its energy efficiency. But before you buy new windows, learn about the different options.
The frame is the outermost part of a window, connecting it to the wall itself. It consists of the head, jambs, sill, and rails. Window frames are made from wood, aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, but it’s important to choose the right one for your climate. For example, wood frames are beautiful and offer favorable insulating properties, but they require more maintenance than other materials.
To determine what type of frame you need, answer a few basic questions: Is the existing window in a load-bearing wall? Are you trying to increase energy efficiency? If you answer yes to both of these, then you will need a full-frame replacement. If you answered no to either of these, an insert replacement will work just fine.
Before starting any installation, be sure to prepare your work area by cleaning the surface and removing old nails. Also, make a note of your measurements so you don’t forget them later on. Having everything ready ahead of time will save you a lot of hassle.
Next, inspect the frame for signs of damage. If you notice any rot, use a screwdriver to probe the surface of the wood. If the texture feels spongy, it’s probably rotting and should be replaced.
Once you’ve cleaned the area, apply a layer of protective tape to the entire window frame. This will keep moisture and other debris from damaging the new installation. Be sure to leave a little bit of an overlap between the protective tape and the casing for better coverage.
If you’re unsure what type of frame to choose, consider a composite window. These windows have a wood core wrapped in aluminum or vinyl for added strength and insulation. They are a good choice for homes in harsh climates, as they can withstand rain and snow. They are also more expensive than other types of frames, but you will get your money’s worth as they last for up to 80 years.
Glass
A window is more than just a hole in the wall, it allows us to see the world outside our home and lets in sunlight and air. However, windows are susceptible to damage from things like weather and shattered glass. Window glass is an important part of any house, so if it breaks, it needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Window replacement can be expensive, but you don’t have to replace the entire window frame if just one pane is broken. Instead, you can replace just the glass with a new single or double pane.
To begin the process, first remove the window sash by lifting and pulling it from the bottom. Then, clean the existing caulk from around the edge of the rabbet with a wire brush or rag and scrape away any loose paint. Next, measure the width and height of the opening to determine how much window glass you need. Once you have the measurements, order the window glass from a hardware or home improvement store.
When installing the new glass, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the rabbet to bed the glass. Be sure to use a putty knife to press the compound against the glass. Then, use a cloth to smooth the glass and make sure there are no gaps or cracks.
Often, old double or triple pane windows develop issues with condensation between the glass panes. This is due to a cracked seal, which allows the insulating gasses in between the panes to escape and degrade over time. These problems can be resolved with a simple repair conducted by a professional.
Another common issue with older double or triple pane windows is the appearance of fogginess or streaking between the windowpanes. This is caused by the low-e coatings in the panes, which are oxidizing and losing their effectiveness. These coatings can be restored with a glass-only repair, which is less expensive than replacing the entire window.
Weatherstripping
One of the simplest and most effective do-it-yourself tasks to improve energy efficiency is replacing old weather stripping. This simple task plugs air leaks, reduces drafts, and blocks unwanted noise. It also helps ensure that your windows and doors seal tightly, preventing moisture from entering the home.
Several different types of weatherstripping are available, each with its own unique advantages and considerations. Felt weather strips, for example, are cheap and readily available, but they don’t block air flow very well, and they’re susceptible to moisture and dirt. Vinyl and metal options are more expensive but last longer and resist moisture. Tubular weatherstripping is another high-performance option that uses narrow sponge rubber or vinyl tubes attached to a wood or metal mounting strip. Some versions of this weatherstripping are inserted into milled grooves for a sleek appearance.
To replace old weather stripping, first remove any existing stripping with a utility knife or shears, then clean the area thoroughly with soapy water. Dry it completely with a rag or towel. Next, use a tape measure to size your new stripping. When cutting, make sure to leave about an inch of extra length so you can fine-tune the fit later. For adhesive-backed types, peel and stick the strips along the door or window frame. For nail-in types, secure them with finishing nails every few inches. For double-hung windows, apply V strip or foam tape around the frames where the sashes meet each other.
To test the effectiveness of your new weather stripping, have someone close the door and shine a flashlight outside. If light is visible anywhere, the door doesn’t have an adequate seal and needs more weatherstripping. This test is best done at night, so recruit a willing friend or family member and bribe them with wine if necessary!
Seals
Window seals are crucial to your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. They prevent air and water leaks and help reduce drafts. They also protect the frame and glass from moisture, rust, and mold. However, over time they can become damaged or worn out. In some cases, repair may be possible, but in other cases it is best to replace the seals. This can be done by a professional.
Whether the seals are made of rubber, plastic, metal, or a bonded combination, they need to be properly cared for to extend their lifespan. One way to do this is to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. These often go sailing into wastebaskets unread, but they can help prolong the life of a window seal and keep it functioning optimally. Other ways to protect your window seals include avoiding harsh cleaners and excessive pressure on the windows.
If your window seals are damaged or have failed, it is likely best to replace them. This can be done by a professional, but it is also something homeowners can do on their own. If you are planning on doing this yourself, make sure to choose a day with little to no rain expected. It will be difficult to do the job without having large amounts of rain running into your home. It is also a good idea to wear the appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment) when working on the window.
When replacing the seals, you will need to remove the old caulk or sealant first. Using a sharp blade or a razor knife, cut away the excess caulk or sealant from around the edges of the window frame and the sill. Next, remove the old rubber seal from the grooves in the window frame by pinching a part of it and pulling it away from the window. This process will be repeated for all four sides of the window. Once the seals are removed, clean off any residue left behind with a damp cloth.
If you’re unsure whether your window seals are still functioning correctly, talk to a trusted window installation company near you. They can assess the situation and help you determine if repair or replacement is the best option for your home.