Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. In the event of serious damages such as broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be required.
But many other issues can be repaired to extend the lifespan of your windows. Common issues include:
Broken or cracked Panes
If it’s an unintentional rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only ugly, but it can also result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it’s usually relatively easy to fix windows with cracked panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to use a utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame’s edges. Next, wipe down the glass’s surface and the frame’s wood using a soft cloth or paper towel.
Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from leaking into the frame through the cracks and result in further damage.
If you have double glazing near me-paned glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer that lies between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that’s totally missing, it might be the time to call a professional.
Cracks in thermal stress can happen when there’s a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a window, it is best to replace it instead of try to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to fill cracks in windows that are not yet ready to be replaced. It can also keep out bugs and cold wind. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack, and then attach it using duct tape. This isn’t a permanent solution however it’s a great solution in a pinch and keeps cold air and insects out of your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on the windows of your old ones it is recommended to contact your local business to determine whether replacing the entire window is a better option.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can alter the appearance of a home and can also be danger to your safety. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. The first step is to ensure that the cause of the rot has been taken care of. This can be done by looking for roof leaks and gutters that aren’t functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.
Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with the claw hammer, chisel, or Window repairs rasp. Once the rotten areas have been removed then you must replace them with new wood. It is recommended to use pre-treated wood for this task as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the wood damaged by rot You can try using filler or wood hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, follow the instructions on the product label.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. You can do this by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a great one to apply.
You can also use an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and provides a good finish. It is essential to follow the instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can sand the surface of the wood. Start with a rough sandpaper then move on to an easier grade.
The last thing you want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by exposing it to more water. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.
The Won’t open
There are many reasons why windows don’t open. The house may have settled, or the wood frames could have warped during humid weather. Someone might have also secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can unlock most stuck windows.
Accumulated debris or gunk could be the main cause of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal may get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas can help to prevent oxidation and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.
Stuck windows can also be the result of a loosening or breakage of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed at least two floors above surface.
If you have difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. Try running a hairdryer along the frame’s edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.
A damaged spring can be the cause of a window that won’t lift or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, you’ll have to consult the owner’s manual for additional instructions.
If you’ve tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they still won’t open it could be the right time to replace windows with energy-efficient, window repairs new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don’t let your windows slide from functional to inoperable because windows that aren’t properly shut could leave your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows and services!