Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and keep their homes warm. In the event of severe damages, like broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be necessary.

Many other problems can be fixed to extend the longevity of windows. The most frequent issues are:

Broken or cracked Panes

If it's an unintentional rock that was tossed by your lawnmowers or a tree's branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electric bills since the broken pieces allow cold air into 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 need to employ a utility knife to remove any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of both the glass and wood of the frame.

Once the area is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting in through the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

A serious crack in double glazed window repairs-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, rendering your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to contact an expert.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's an extreme temperature difference between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens on two parts of a window it's recommended to replace the glass instead of trying to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced clear tape can do a great job of preventing the crack from spreading and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack, and then attach it using duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it can be useful in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects from entering your home. If you notice cracks on the windows of your old ones You should consult your local business to determine whether replacing the entire window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and also pose an hazard to safety. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. First, you must address the cause of the wood decay. This can be done by checking for roof leaks, missing gutters cracking caulking, and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it will resist the onset of rot. If you are unable replace the wood damaged by rot You can try using wood hardener or filler to repair the damaged area. This kind of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. To get the best results, adhere to the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is essential to safeguard the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. Sikkens for instance is a great one to apply.

Make use of a two-part epoxy to protect the wood against further damage. This product is easy to apply and provides a good finish. However, it is very important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries you can sand the wood's surface. It is recommended to begin with a rough piece of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother one.

The final thing you want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by exposed to more water. It is recommended, therefore, to cover the surface repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

It won't open

There are a variety of reasons a window won't open. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames could have warped during wet weather. Someone might have also secured them with a nail for security. However, with a little patience and the right tools, many windows that are stuck can be opened.

One of the main causes of windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, says Acme Glass. Additionally, hardware made of metal may rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent oxidation and keep your window operating properly.

Stuck windows may be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys that are used to lift and lower the window. These components may lose tension and get blocked especially when the window is situated at least two stories above the ground.

If you are having trouble opening the window try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open a bit at one time. 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. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it to move more easily.

A broken spring could be the cause of windows that aren't able to lift or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll be required to refer to your owner's manual for window repairs further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still cannot open, it's probably time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let your windows go from functional to unusable since windows that aren't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows and our services!