Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and make their homes warm. Window replacements may be required in the event of severe damage like broken glass or a shattered window frame.

But there are many other issues that can be addressed to extend the lifespan of your windows. Common issues include:

Broken or cracked panes

Cracked window glass can be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or a tree branch being blown by strong winds. This not only looks terrible, but it could result in higher energy bills because broken glass lets cold air into your home. It's relatively easy to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may need to use a utility knife to loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of both the glass and the frame's wood.

Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the crack and cause further damage.

A serious crack in double-paned glass could cause gas to leak between the panes, rendering your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to call in a professional.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a glass, it is recommended 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 good job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing the entry of bugs and cold air. You can cut the length of a nylon stocking to cover the entire crack and glue it with duct tape. It's not an end-to-end solution, but it can keep insects and cold air away from your home. If your windows are old and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with the local window company to determine if replacing the entire upvc window repair would be the best option for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent problem for window repairs windows. It can affect the appearance of a house and also pose danger to your safety. It is possible to fix rotted wood. The first step is to make sure that the source of the rot has been addressed. Examine for leaks in the roof and other areas that water may get into the wood.

You will then need to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer or a rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it will resist decay. If you are not able to replace the rotted timber you can apply wood filler and hardener to repair the damaged area. This kind 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.

After you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it is essential to protect 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 an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and gives a good finish. However, it is important that you follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother grade.

You do not want to expose the rotted part to more moisture. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will help protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

There are many reasons why windows won't open. Wood frames can warp in humid weather, the house might have sunk or someone might have nailed it shut to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open most stuck windows.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major reason of the window not opening. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. In addition, metal hardware may get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.

Stuck windows can be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys that are used to lift and lower the window. These components can lose their tension and cause obstruction especially if the window is located two or more stories higher than the ground.

If you are having trouble opening windows, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open just a little at each time. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. Try running a hairdryer along the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

Another issue with windows that won't open is a broken spring that stops the window jamb from rising or lowering. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, 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 still won't open It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows of your home become functional to useless. A window that isn’t properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows as well as our services!