It's The Window Repair Case Study You'll Never Forget
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. In the event of serious damages such as broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be required.
However, many other issues can be repaired to extend the lifespan of your windows. Some common issues include:
Cracked or broken panes
Cracked window glass could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws rocks at the wrong time or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This not only looks terrible, but it could result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air into your home. Fortunately, it's generally easy to repair windows that have damaged panes.
Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need use a utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to wipe the glass's surface and the wood of the frame.
Once the frame is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
If you have double-pane glass cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the quality of the glass or if you have an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there is an extreme temperature difference both inside and outside your home. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens across two parts of a window, it's probably best to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.
For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a decent job of stabilizing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut the length of a nylon stocking to cover the entire crack and glue it with duct tape. This isn't a long-term solution, but it works well in a pinch and it keeps insects and cold air out of your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows You should consult your local business to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and it can also pose an hazard to safety. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. First, you need to make sure that the root of the rot has been dealt with. Examine for leaks in the roof and other areas that water may get into the wood.
You'll then have to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. double glazing Basingstoke can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project, as it will resist rot. If you are unable to replace the damaged timber you can apply wood hardener and filler to repair the damaged area. Many hardware stores will sell this kind of product. To get the best results, follow the instructions on the label.
After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to use.
Use a two-part epoxy in order to safeguard the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and provides a good finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can sand down the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to more smoother grades.
You do not want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. It is recommended, so, 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
A window that won't open can be caused by a variety of factors. Wood frames can warp in wet weather, the house may have settled or someone may have closed it for security reasons. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open the majority of stuck windows.
One of the most frequent causes of windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease will help prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is operating correctly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window can become loose, or even break. These components can lose tension and become obstructed if they are located at least two floors higher than the surface.
If you have difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. Try using a hairdryer to dry the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.
Another common problem with windows that don't open is a faulty spring that stops the window jamb from lowering or rising. 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 might be time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows go from functional to useless since windows that aren't properly closed can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us to learn more about our windows replacement services and products today!