Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes warm. In the event of major damage, such as broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be required.
Many other problems are fixable to extend the life of windows. Some common issues include:
Broken or cracked Panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws rocks at the wrong time or a tree branch being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually awful, but it could result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air into your house. Luckily, it's typically easy to repair windows that have broken panes.
Start by carefully removing the glass using gloves and safety glasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the glass's surface and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting in through the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.
A serious crack in double-paned glass could cause gas to leak between the panes, rendering your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or if you have an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.
Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's a significant temperature difference both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a glass, it is recommended to replace it instead of try to repair it.
If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a good job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack, and then attach it using duct tape. This isn't an end-to-end fix, but it will keep insects out and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your older windows it is recommended to contact your local business to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is among the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a safety hazard. However, it is possible to repair wood that has rot. The first step is to make sure that the root of the rot has been addressed. This can be done by examining for leaks in the roof and gutters that aren't functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.
Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After the rotten areas have been eliminated it is time to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended that you use pre-treated wood for this project as it is resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the rotted wood then you can use wood filler or hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the most efficient results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. You can do this by applying an water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to apply.
Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a nice finish. It is crucial to follow the instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to more smoother grades.
You don't want to expose your damaged part to further moisture. It is recommended, so, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based primer which will shield it from water. Then, you can reapply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.
It won't open
There are many reasons why windows won't open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to wet weather, the house might have sunk or someone might have closed it to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows.
The accumulation of gunk or debris could be the main cause of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas can aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window may be loosened, or break. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction if they are located higher than two floors higher than the ground.
If you are having trouble opening a window, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at a time. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage, and be careful not to scratch 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 assist it to move more easily.
A broken spring could be the reason for windows that aren't able to raise 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 then lubricating them but they're still unable to open It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to useless. If window repair near me aren't properly closed could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact us today for more information on our replacement windows as well as our services!
