Window Repairs

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

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

Broken or cracked panes

Cracked window glass can be caused by a lawnmower that throws rocks in the wrong direction or the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This not only looks bad, but it can cause more energy costs because broken glass lets cold air into your house. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the crack and cause further damage.

If you have double-pane glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to compromise the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to contact a professional.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme temperature difference both inside and outside your home. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens on two parts of a window it's best to replace the window rather than trying 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 keeping out bugs and cold air. 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 is not an end-to-end fix, but it will keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on the windows of your old ones it is recommended to contact the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical problem for windows. It can affect the appearance of a house and also pose danger to your safety. It is possible to fix rotted wood. First, you must address the cause of the wood rot. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water could get into the wood.

The next step is to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. After removing the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project, as it is resistant to decay. If you are not able to replace the timber that has rotted you can apply wood filler and hardener to strengthen the damaged area. Most hardware stores will have this type of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to achieve the most effective results.

Once you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. A product like Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task.

Make use of a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and gives a good finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to more smoother grades.

The most important thing you don't want to do is make the area that is rotting even more by exposed to more water. So, it's an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will help protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

There are many reasons why windows don't open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to humid weather, the house may have settled or someone might have nailed it shut to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.

The accumulation of gunk or debris could be the main cause of a window not opening. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. Additionally, hardware made of metal may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to help prevent oxidation, and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.

Stuck windows may be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the Window Repair. These parts can be weakened and obstructed when they are placed higher than two floors higher than the surface.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the window. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage and be careful not to scratch the window or the wood. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily.

A faulty spring can also be the cause of a window that won't lift or lower. Based on the manufacturer of your windows, you'll have to consult your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still aren't opening, it's time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let the windows in your home become functional to useless. If your windows aren't properly shut could expose your home to burglary and water damages. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows and services!