Window Repairs
Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes warm. In the event of severe damages, like broken glass or a cracked frame, a replacement window may be necessary.
But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. Some common problems include:
Broken or cracked Panes
Whether it's an errant rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's relatively easy to repair windows with broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to employ a utility knife to loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the glass's surface and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's edges. This prevents water from getting in through the crack, which can cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.
If you have double-pane glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer that lies between the panes and make your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.
Thermal stress cracks can also happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window, it is recommended to replace it instead of attempt to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that aren't yet ready for replacement. It can also keep out cold and bugs. You can cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp sufficient to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever, but it works well in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air from entering your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your windows that are older You should consult the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is the best option.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can alter the appearance of a house and it can also pose a safety risk. However, it is possible to fix rotted wood. First, you will need to make sure that the cause of the rot has been addressed. This can be accomplished by looking for roof leaks or gutters that are not functioning or cracked caulking, as well as other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.
You will then need to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be accomplished with a claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. Once the rotten areas have been removed, you will need to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project, as it will resist the onset of rot. If you cannot replace the timber that has rotted then you can use wood filler and hardener to repair the damaged area. This type of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. To get the best results, adhere to the directions on the label.
After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this job.
You can also use an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. After the epoxy filler dries you can sand the surface of the wooden. It is best to begin with a rough layer of sandpaper before moving to a smoother one.
The most important thing you don't want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by expose it to more water. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will help protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.
Won't Open
A window that isn't opening could be due to a variety of reasons. Wood frames can warp during rainy weather, or the house could have settled or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, most windows that are locked can be opened.
One of the main causes of windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. Additionally, metal hardware may get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is working well.
The pulleys used to raise or lower the window could be loosened, or break. These components can lose their tension and get blocked particularly if the window is located two or more stories higher than the ground.
If window repair near me are having difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Put a piece of wood on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage, and be careful not to damage the window or the wood. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and allow it to move more easily.
A broken spring could be the reason for windows that don't lift or lower. You'll need to check your owner's guide for more details depending on the person who made your windows.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they're still not opening, it might be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable since windows that aren't properly closed can leave your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows as well as our services!