A Trip Back In Time: How People Talked About Window Repair 20 Years Ago
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and make their homes comfortable. In the event of severe damages, like broken glass or a damaged frame, a replacement window may be required.
However, many other issues can be addressed to extend the lifespan of your windows. The most frequent issues are:
Cracked or Broken Panes
Cracked windows can be caused by a lawnmowers who throws errant rocks or by branches of trees being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually terrible, but it could cause higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air in to your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with damaged 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 loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof around the frame's perimeter. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
A serious crack in double-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough that it compromises the strength of the window or if the inner pane is missing it is possible to contact a professional.
Thermal stress cracks may also occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature between your home and the outside. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens across two parts of a window, it's probably best to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.
For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of stabilizing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut the length of a nylon stocking to cover the entire crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever, but it works well in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects from entering your home. If your windows are older and you're starting to notice cracks in the glass, it's a good idea to check with your local window manufacturer about whether replacing the entire window might be a better option for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is, however, possible to repair rotted wood. First, you must identify the cause of the wood decay. Look for leaks on the roof and other areas that water may get into the wood.
window repair near me is to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After the rotten areas have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for this project as it is resistant to rot. If you are unable to replace the wood damaged by rot then you can use wood hardener or filler to repair the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores have this type of product. To get the best results, make sure you follow the instructions on the product label.
Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. This can be done by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to apply.
You can also apply an epoxy filler that is two-part to shield the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and provides a good finish. It is important to follow the instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother one.
The last thing you would like to do is make the rotted area even worse by exposed to more water. It is therefore recommended to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.
It won't open
A window that won't open can be the result of a variety of factors. Wood frames can warp when exposed to rainy weather, or the house might have sunk or someone may have nailed it shut to protect themselves. However, with a little patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.
One of the most common causes of windows that won't open is accumulated gunk or debris on its moving parts. Dirt and grime build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, notes Acme Glass. In addition, metal hardware may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and ensure that your windows are operating properly.
Stuck windows may be caused by an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed two or more floors above the surface.
If you are having difficulty opening a door, try using 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 scratch the window or wood. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.
Another common problem with windows that won't open is a defective spring that keeps the window jamb from lowering or rising. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, you will have to consult the owner's manual for additional instructions.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they still won't open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let windows in your home become functional to inoperable. A window that isn’t properly closed could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team for more information about our windows replacement and services today!