Window Repairs

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

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

Broken or cracked panes

Whether it's an errant rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch blown by high winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may have to employ a utility knife to loosen any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, use a soft cloth or paper towel to clean the surface of the glass and the frame's wood.

After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's edges. This will stop water from entering the frame through the cracks and result in further damage.

A bad crack in double-paned glass can affect the gas between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it's the time to call an expert.

Thermal stress cracks can also happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens to two portions of a window it's recommended to replace the glass instead of trying to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that are not yet ready to be replaced. It also keeps out cold winds and bugs. You can cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp that's sufficient to cover the crack, and stick it to the wall using duct tape. This isn't an indefinite solution, but it can keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your windows that are older, you should check with the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you will need to ensure that the root of the rot has been taken care of. This can be done by looking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning or cracked caulking, as well as other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

Next, you will need to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with an axe, repairs a claw hammer or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been cleared, you will need to replace them with new wood. It is recommended that you choose treated wood for this project as it is resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the timber that has rotted you can apply wood filler and hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

Once you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to apply.

You can also use an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a nice finish. However, it is very important to adhere to the instructions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries you can sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to an easier grade.

You don't want to expose your rotted part to more moisture. Therefore, it is an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. Then, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

It won't open

The reason a window won't open can be caused by various factors. Wood frames can warp in wet weather, the house could have settled or someone might have closed it for security reasons. But with some patience and the right tools, many windows that are stuck can be opened.

One of the most frequent causes of a window that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, says Acme Glass. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to help prevent oxidation, and help keep your windows operating well.

Stuck windows could also be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the upvc window repair near me. These parts can lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed higher than two floors higher than the surface.

If you're having trouble opening a window Try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open just a little at a 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. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily.

Another common issue with windows that won't open is a broken spring that stops the window jamb from lowering or rising. Depending on who manufactured your windows, repairs you'll be required to refer to your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they're still not opening It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to inoperable because windows that aren't properly shut can leave your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact our team for more information on our windows replacement services and products today!