Watch Out: What Window Repair Is Taking Over And How To Stop It
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. In the event of severe damages such as broken glass or a cracked frame, a window replacement could be required.
But there are many other issues that can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. Some common problems include:
Broken or cracked Panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This is not only visually awful, but it could also lead to more energy costs because the broken pieces let cold air into your house. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass using gloves and safety glasses. You may need use a utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the frame's wood using a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's edges. This will prevent water from leaking into the frame through the cracks and cause further damage.
A bad crack in double-paned glass may cause gas to leak between the panes, rendering your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is significant enough to compromise the quality of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it might be the time to call 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 the cracks are on two sides of a window, it is best to replace it rather than attempt to repair it.
For cracked windows that aren't yet ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good 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 attach it using duct tape. It's not an indefinite fix, but it will keep insects and cold air away from your home. If your windows are old 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 could be the best alternative for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can alter the appearance of a house and it can also pose an hazard to safety. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. You will first need to identify the cause of the wood rot. Check for roof leaks and other areas that water may get into the wood.
The next step is to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been eliminated then you must replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended that you make use of pre-treated wood for this task as it will be resistant to rot. If you cannot replace the rotted timber, you can use wood hardener and filler to strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at most hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the instructions on the product label.
After you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. A product like Sikkens is a great choice for this task.
You can also apply an epoxy filler that is two-part to shield the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. It is important to follow the instructions on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry it is possible to sand the wood's surface. window repairs near me is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper and then move to a smoother grade.
You do not want to expose the rotted part to more moisture. So, it's an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.
The W won't let you open
There are many reasons a window won't open. The house might have shifted, 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 little patience and the right tools, most windows that are locked can be opened.
Accumulated debris or gunk could be the main cause of windows that aren't opening. Dirt and grime build up on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, says Acme Glass. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas to help prevent oxidation, and help keep your windows operating well.
Stuck windows can be the result of a loosening or breakage of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the window. These components can lose their tension and cause obstruction especially when the window is two or more stories above the ground.
If you have trouble opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to damage either the wood or the window. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.
A faulty spring can also be the reason for windows that don't lift or lower. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional information depending on who made your windows.
If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still won’t open, then it's probably time to replace them. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let windows in your home become functional to inoperable. If a window isn't properly closed could leave your home vulnerable for burglary and water damages. Contact us for more information about our windows replacement services and products today!