Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. In the event of severe damages such as broken glass or a damaged frame, a window replacement could be required.

But many other issues can be addressed to extend the life of your windows. Some common issues include:

Cracked or Broken Panes

If it's an unintentional rock that was tossed by your lawnmowers or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged window glass isn't just visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with broken panes.

Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to employ a utility knife to break loose any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame 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 into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

A crack that is severe in double glazing repairs-paned glass can compromise the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it might be time to call in an expert.

Thermal stress cracks may also occur when there is an extreme temperature difference between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and window Repair contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window, it is recommended to replace it rather than try to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that are not yet ready for replacement. It also keeps out cold winds and bugs. You can cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. It's not an indefinite solution, but it's a good way to keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your older windows, you should check with your local company to see if replacing the whole window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a security risk. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. The first step is to ensure that the root of the rot has been taken care of. This can be done by examining for leaks in the roof, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

The next step is to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done with the claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been removed, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended that you use pre-treated wood for this task as it will be resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the timber that has rotted, you can use filler and wood hardener to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to achieve the most efficient results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's important that you protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product like Sikkens is an excellent option for this task.

You can also use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is very important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move to a smoother grade.

You don't want to expose the rotted part to more moisture. It is a good idea, so, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based prime that will protect it from water. After that, window repair you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

A window that won't open can be the result of a variety of reasons. The house may have settled, or the wood frames might have warped due to wet weather. There is also the possibility that someone put them in place to protect themselves. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, all windows that are stuck can be opened.

Accumulated debris or gunk could be the main cause of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, metal hardware is prone to get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window operating correctly.

Stuck windows can be caused by the breaking or loosening of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window repair near me. These components can lose their tension and become obstructed, especially when the window is two or more stories above the ground.

If you are having trouble opening the window repair, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at a time. Put a piece of wood on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to damage the window or the wood. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

A broken spring could be the cause of a window that won't lift or lower. You will need to consult the owner's manual for additional information depending on 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 could be the right time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable, as a window that isn't properly shut can expose your home to burglary and water damage. Contact us to learn more about our windows replacement and services today!