Window Repairs Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. Window replacements may be required in the event of severe damage like broken glass or a broken window frame. But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. Common problems include: Cracked or broken Panes Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually bad, but it can cause higher energy bills because broken glass lets cold air in to 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 use a utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, use a soft cloth or paper towel to clean the surface of both the glass and wood of the frame. Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from entering through the crack, which can cause further damage to both the frame and the glass. A serious crack in double-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less insulative. If the crack is so severe that it is threatening the structural integrity of the window or if the inner pane is missing, you may need to contact an expert. Cracks in thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a glass, it is best to replace it rather than attempt to repair it. For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced clear tape can do a decent job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp that's large enough to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it can be useful in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air away from your home. If window repairs are old and you're starting to notice cracks in the glass It's recommended to consult with the local window company regarding whether replacing the entire window would be a better solution for you. Rotten Wood Wood rot is a common problem with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a home and can also be danger to your safety. However, it is possible to repair rotted wood. The first step is to ensure that the source of the rot has been dealt with. This can be accomplished by looking for roof leaks and gutters that aren't functioning cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood. The next step is to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with the claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it will resist rot. If you are unable replace the wood that has been damaged then you can use wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores sell this kind of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to ensure the most effective results. Once you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. A product like Sikkens is a great choice for this job. You can also use a two-part epoxy filler to shield the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it is important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can smooth the wood's surface. It is recommended to begin with a rough piece of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade. The final thing you would like to do is make the area that is rotting even more by exposing it to more water. Therefore, it is a good idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will shield it from moisture. Then, you can apply waterproof wood sealant. The W won't let you open A window that isn't opening can be caused by various factors. The house could have settled or the wooden frames could have warped during wet weather. Somebody may have secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can unlock most stuck windows. Accumulated debris or gunk could be the main cause of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware can also rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease will help prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is working correctly. Stuck windows may also be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys that are used to lift and lower the window. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed two or more floors higher than the surface. If you are having difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Place a block of wood on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage, and be careful not to damage the window or wood. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily. A damaged spring can be the cause of windows that aren't able to lift or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, you'll be required to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions. If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they're still unable to open, it might be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows of your home become functional to useless. A window that isn’t properly closed could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact us for more information about our windows replacement services and products today!
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