Leonor Long asked 3 months ago
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes warm. In the event of major damages, like broken glass or a shattered frame, a replacement window may be required.
But there are many other issues that can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:
Broken or cracked panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmower that throws rocks at the wrong time or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This not only looks awful, but it could also lead to higher energy bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It’s relatively easy to repair windows with broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to employ a utility knife to break loose any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to clean the glass’s surface and the frame’s wood.
Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the frame’s perimeter. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
If you have double-pane glass a bad crack could compromise the gas layer that lies between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane that’s totally missing, it’s the time to call a professional.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there’s a significant temperature difference inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If this happens across two portions of a window repair it’s best to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that are not yet ready for replacement. It also keeps out cold and bugs. You can also cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. This isn’t a long-term solution, but it works well in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air from entering your home. If your windows are older and you’re starting to notice cracks in the glass It’s an excellent idea to talk with the local window company about whether replacing the entire window might be the best alternative for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can degrade a house’s appearance and create a security hazard. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you must determine the root of the wood’s rot. Check for roof leaks and other areas that water may get into the wood.
The next step is to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with a claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After the rotten areas have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with new wood. It is recommended to make use of pre-treated wood for this project as it will be resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the rotted timber you can apply wood filler and hardener to strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores sell this kind of product. To achieve the best results, follow the instructions on the label.
Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is essential to protect the newly-repaired area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to use.
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 important to follow the instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the wood’s surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move on to an easier grade.
The final thing you want to do is make the area that is rotting even more by exposed to more water. So, it’s recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.
It won’t open
There are a variety of reasons windows don’t open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to rainy weather, or the house may have settled or someone could have closed it for security reasons. But with some patience and the right tools, all windows that are locked can be opened.
Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major cause of windows that aren’t opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. Additionally, metal hardware may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will help to prevent oxidation and keep your windows functioning properly.
Stuck windows may be the result of a loosening or breakage of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window. These components may lose tension and cause obstruction especially when the window Repair is two or more stories higher than the ground.
If you have trouble opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage and be careful not to damage the window or wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily.
A faulty spring can also be the cause of windows that aren’t able to raise or lower. Based on the manufacturer of your windows, you will need to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they’re still not opening, it might be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don’t let windows in your home go from being functional to useless. A window that isn’t properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact us for more information on our windows replacement and services today!