Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. In the event of severe damages such as broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be required.

However, many other issues can be addressed to extend the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Cracked or Broken Panes

Cracked windows could be caused by a lawnmowers that 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 more energy costs because the broken pieces allow cold air into your house. It's relatively easy to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle cloth or paper towel to wipe the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame.

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

A crack that is severe in double-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough that it threatens the integrity of the window, or if the pane inside is not there, you may need to contact an expert.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there is a drastic difference in temperature inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a glass, it is recommended to replace it rather than try to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a decent job of preventing the crack from spreading 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 stick it to the wall using duct tape. This is not a permanent solution, but it can keep insects out and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on the windows of your old ones You should consult your local company to see if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most frequent issues with windows. It can affect the appearance of a home and also pose danger to your safety. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. First, you will need to ensure that the source of the rot has been taken care of. Look for leaks on the roof and other places where water can enter the wood.

You will then need to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be done using a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project, as it will resist rot. If you are unable to replace the timber that has rotted, you can use wood hardener and filler to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will sell this kind of product. To achieve the best results, make sure you follow the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice for this job.

You can also apply a two-part epoxy filler to shield 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 sand the surface of the wood. It is best to start with a rough layer of sandpaper and then move to a smoother one.

The most important thing you don't would like to do is make the area that has been damaged by exposed to more water. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer which will shield it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't let you open

There are many reasons why a window won't open. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames might have warped due to humid weather. Someone might have also put them in place to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can unlock most stuck windows.

One of the main causes of windows that isn't opening is the accumulation of debris or repairer gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, repairer metal hardware may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is functioning correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and become obstructed especially if the window is located at least two stories above the ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be sure not to harm the window or wood. You can also try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.

A broken spring could be the reason for windows that don't raise or lower. You will need to consult the owner's manual for additional information depending on who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving components on your windows, but they cannot open, it may be time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let your windows go from functional to useless because windows that aren't properly shut can make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team to learn more about our windows replacement and services today!