Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and make their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a broken window frame.
Other issues are fixable to extend the lifespan of windows. Some common problems include:
Cracked or broken Panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by a tree branch being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually terrible, but it could cause higher energy bills because the broken pieces let cold air in to your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to repair windows that have broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's perimeter. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
If you have double-pane glass a bad crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough that it threatens the integrity of the window, or if the inner pane is missing, you may need to consult an expert.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a window, it is recommended to replace it instead of try to repair it.
If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of securing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. This isn't an indefinite fix, but it will keep cold air out and insects away from 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 company to determine if replacing the entire window might be the best solution for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can alter the appearance of a house and can also be danger to your safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. It is first necessary to identify the cause of the wood rot. This can be done by examining for roof leaks, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.
The next step is to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After removing the rotten wood, you'll have to replace it with fresh wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for this task as it will be resistant to rot. If you are unable replace the wood that has been damaged, you can try using filler or wood hardener to repair the damaged area. This kind of product can be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to ensure the most efficient results.
Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. You can do this by applying an water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this task.
Make use of a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. window repair is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is important that you follow the directions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries, you can sand down the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper before moving to a smoother one.
The last thing you want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by expose it to more water. Therefore, it is an ideal idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply waterproof wood sealant.
The Won't open
There are a variety of reasons windows don't open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to humid weather, the house may have settled or someone could have nailed it shut to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows.
One of the main reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating well.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window may be loosened, or break. These components may lose tension and get blocked especially if the window is located two or more stories higher than the ground.
If you are having trouble opening windows, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at each time. Place a wood block on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage and be careful not to scratch the window or the wood. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.
A faulty spring can also be the cause of windows that aren't able to lift or lower. You'll need to refer to your owner's guide for more information depending on who made your windows.
If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they won’t open, then it's probably time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let the windows of your home go from functional to inoperable. A window that isn’t properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact us today for more information about our replacement windows and services!