Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a broken window frame.

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

Cracked or broken Panes

Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks at the wrong time or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually terrible, but it could result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air in to 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 old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, use a soft paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of both the glass and the wood of the frame.

After the area is cleaned then apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting in through the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

A serious crack in double-paned glass may compromise the gas between the panes, rendering your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to threaten 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 caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a window it is best to replace it rather than try to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't quite ready to be replaced clear tape can do a good job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut a nylon stocking large enough to cover the entire crack and glue it with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it's a great solution in a pinch and it keeps insects and cold air from entering your home. If you notice cracks on your windows that are older, you should check with your local company to see if replacing the whole window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most frequent issues with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and it can also pose an hazard to safety. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. First, you must identify the cause of the wood decay. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places where water could get into the wood.

You'll then have to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been removed it is time to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project since it will resist the onset of rot. If you are not able to replace the timber that has rotted you can apply wood hardener and filler to repair the damaged area. Many hardware stores will have this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to achieve the most effective results.

After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is important to protect the repaired area. You can do this by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to use.

You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and provides an excellent finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry it is possible to sand the surface of the wooden. It is best to begin with a rough layer of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother one.

You do not want to expose the damaged part to further moisture. So, it's 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 wood sealant that is waterproof.

It won't open

There are a variety of reasons windows don't open. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames might have warped due to wet weather. There is also the possibility that someone nailed them shut for security. With a little patience and the right tools, you can open most stuck windows.

Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major cause of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on hinges, sliding tracks and locks. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window may become loose, or even break. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction when they are situated two or more floors above the ground.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. 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. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.

Another common issue for windows that aren't opening is a faulty spring that stops the window jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for more 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 still won't open It could be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and window repairs Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable, as a window that isn't properly shut can make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team for more information about our replacement windows and services today!