It's A Window Repair Success Story You'll Never Be Able To
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. In the event of serious damages such as broken glass or a cracked frame, a replacement window may be necessary.
Many other problems are fixable to extend the life of windows. The most frequent issues are:
Broken or cracked panes
Whether it's an errant rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree's branch blown by strong winds, cracked windows are not just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows that have broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to use an utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof around the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting in through the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
A bad crack in double-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to contact an expert.
Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there is a significant temperature difference both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens on two windows it's recommended to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to fill cracks in windows that aren't yet ready for replacement. It can also keep out bugs and cold wind. You can even cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp that's sufficient to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. It's not an indefinite fix, but it will keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass It's recommended to consult with your local window manufacturer about whether replacing the entire window might be a better solution for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is among the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can ruin the appearance of a home and it can also pose a safety risk. It is possible to repair rotted wood. It is first necessary to address the cause of the wood's rot. This can be done by examining for leaks in the roof, missing gutters or cracked caulking, as well as other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.
Next, window repairs will need to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been cleared then you must replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended that you choose treated wood for this project as it is more resistant to rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber you can apply filler and wood hardener to repair the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores sell this kind of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to get the best results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's important that you protect the area. You can do this by applying an water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is a great choice to accomplish this task.
Use a two-part epoxy in order to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a nice finish. It is essential to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can rub the surface of the wood. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to more smoother grades.
You don't want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. It is a good idea therefore, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based prime which will shield it from water. Then, you can reapply waterproof wood sealant.
It won't open
The reason a window won't open could be due to many reasons. The house could have settled, or the wood frames could have warped during rainy weather. There is also the possibility that someone put them in place to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.
The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major cause of windows that aren't opening. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, notes Acme Glass. In addition, metal hardware can get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is working properly.
The pulleys used to raise or lower the window may become loose, or break. These components can lose tension and become obstructed when they are situated at least two floors above the surface.
If you are having difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to damage either 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.
Another common issue for windows that aren't opening is a faulty spring that prevents the window jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for more information depending on who made your windows.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they still won't open, it might be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home become functional to unusable. A window that isn’t properly shut can leave your home vulnerable for water damage and burglary. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows and services!