Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a broken window frame.

But many other issues can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Broken or cracked panes

Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmower that throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually awful, but it could cause higher energy bills because broken glass lets cold air into your house. Luckily, it's usually relatively simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to use a utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, clean the glass's surface and the frame's wood using a soft cloth or paper towel.

After the area is cleaned and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the frame's perimeter. This prevents water from entering through the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

A bad crack in double-paned glass can affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the quality of the glass or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in an expert.

Thermal stress cracks can also occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a glass, it is best to replace it instead of try to repair it.

For cracked windows that 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 even cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp sufficient to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. It's not an indefinite solution, but it's a good way to keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your older windows it is recommended to contact the local company to determine whether replacing the entire window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a security danger. It is possible to fix damaged wood. The first step is to make sure that the root of the rot has been addressed. This can be done by examining for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using the use of a chisel, rasp or claw hammer. After the rotten areas have been removed it is time to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended to make use of pre-treated wood for this task as it is resistant to rot. If you are unable replace the wood damaged by rot, you can try using wood hardener or filler to help strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores sell this kind of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to achieve the best results.

Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. A product like Sikkens is an excellent option for this job.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a nice finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can sand the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade.

You don't want to expose your damaged part to further moisture. It is therefore a good idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. Then, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't open

The reason a window won't open could be due to a variety of reasons. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames might have warped due to humid weather. There is also the possibility that someone put them in place to protect themselves. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, many windows that are stuck can be opened.

The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major reason of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. In addition, metal hardware may get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease will help prevent corrosion and keep your window functioning well.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or even break. These parts can lose tension and cause obstruction when they are situated higher than two floors above surface.

If you have difficulty opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.

A broken spring could be the cause of a window that won't raise or lower. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to unusable since windows that aren't properly shut can make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact our team for more information on our replacement windows and services today!