Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?

Window and door repair and maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing their energy bills as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to add value to their home and improve their living conditions without having to move.

The exterior casing that is loose or rotting should be repaired as soon as possible. They are usually a sign of moisture penetration and can be fixed with little expense.

Broken or cracked glass

You may be wondering if it is possible to repair your cracked or broken window glass or if you should replace it. The answer will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the crack and the type of glass used in your window.

Most of the time cracked or damaged window can be repaired instead of replacing it. The key is to determine what caused the crack and quickly act so it doesn't worsen. This is especially crucial when it comes to impact breaks such as those caused by a lawnmower or a ball for children.

Before you can fix a broken or cracked window, you'll need to remove any pieces that are still in the frame or lying on the ground. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear protective eyewear. If there is any glazing that is holding the pieces together, use a putty knife or chisel, to gently break the pieces.

After you have removed the glass shards take care to clean the area and dispose of them in a responsible way. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces, as they can be extremely sharp. It is also a good idea to cordon off the area, close the door, and inform members of your household not to go in until the broken glass has been cleaned.

It's also recommended to inspect the condition of the frame as well as muntins or mullions which are used to support the glass pane. This is because rust and corrosion could cause damage to these parts which can cause further problems for windows.

If you're worried about the long-term damage, think about replacing the window with tempered glass. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, and it can break into smaller pieces that are less likely than sharp shards of glass to cause injuries.

If you are not confident enough to tackle the task on your own or if it's more cost-effective to replace your window contact a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are experts in repairing and replacing windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other accidents. They can help you decide whether it is more efficient to fix the problem quickly than a more extensive window replacement.

Damaged Frame

It's not surprising that the window frame is damaged. Some of the damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, however other damage such as rotted frames can be serious and must be addressed quickly to avoid costly repairs or replacement.

The wood rot that is a part of the windows frames isn't just unsightly but can also trigger many issues such as mold, fungus and pests that can affect both the value of your home and its health. To fix this issue begin by removing any weatherstripping and then cutting away the decayed wood by using a chisel or a saw. After you have removed the damaged section of the frame, make use of an online kit or at a hardware shop that comes with all the equipment and parts you need to repair it.

Another common issue that needs to be addressed is cracks caused by moisture on the window frames. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which can cause wood to swell and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks, it lets moisture into your home. This can be damaging to the structure of your home as well as your possessions and even your family's health.

Another issue that is common is the difficulty in opening or closing a window. This could be caused by a variety of factors. The issue could be caused by a buildup in dirt or dust, which causes the frame or sash to move.

If your window frame shows visible signs of damage after an incident, it's recommended to consult an expert. The damage may be so severe that a total window replacement might be the only or best option. You could be able submit a claim to your insurance company to pay the cost of any repairs or replacements.

Damaged Seals

Window seals are the final layer of protection from air and moisture infiltration that could damage windows. They also help to keep an ideal temperature inside and reducing energy bills. If your window seal is starting to fail or you've noticed an abrupt increase in your energy bill, it's important to have the problem fixed right away before it gets worse.

No matter if your windows are a double pane or single pane, the glass within them is held by an aluminum spacer inside and polyurethane, sandwiching the two panes of annealed or tempered glass. The fluctuation in temperature in Phoenix's sunshine can cause the glass to degrade over time which allows air and humidity to enter the panes. The window's increased insulation can also be lost if it contained inert gases. This is the primary reason why a window with a damaged seal can begin to fog.

The most effective thing to do if you suspect that your window seals aren't working is to follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This might seem like a simple task but it's a step that many homeowners overlook. Regularly wiping your windows down with whatever cleaning agent is suggested will prolong the lifespan of your windows and ensure they are operating at their best.

Some signs that the window seal is not working include a drafty feeling, especially on an icy winter day. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air out of your window. Similarly, if you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than usual without a reason, your windows may be letting in too much cold air.

The presence of moisture between the windows' glass panes is another indication that your seals are failing. The moisture could be an elongated line of clear water or a long-lasting haze that blocks your view. Moisture between the glass is a result of an infiltration crack caused by the window seal failing, and it can usually be repaired by resealing the aluminum spacer inside with polyurethane.

Muntins and Mullions Damaged

Muntins and mullions, the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single-pane windows, may be real or fake. Window repair experts can repair them if they're damaged. They will take the glass, clean and scrape the area, then rebuild any broken or rotted muntins or mullions. This is usually a cheaper option than replacing the entire window.

Sometimes problems that are not obvious are often overlooked. While the frame's condition can be apparent from heavy rains or snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as evident. For example, a crack in the drip cap (the piece of metal that covers the top of the frame) could allow moisture to enter the home, which can lead to rot, mould and even insect infestation. A damaged sash cable may also cause rattles and draughts when windows are opened or closed.

Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot and can be costly, particularly if water is leaking into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks fixed when they are detected. Draughts are often caused by faulty hinges on old windows or because of poorly designed windows that let air in. Window & Door Doctor is able to repair leaks and draughts without having to replace the entire window.

If the casing around your window is loosened, cracked, rotting or completely missing, it will need to be replaced. This isn't necessarily an easy task for a novice, as the surrounding wall could be in disrepair and require a complete reconstruction as well. It is not only unsightly but also allows moisture and air to enter the home. This reduces energy efficiency. Home centers typically offer primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance pvc doctor or vinyl products. These are more resistant to weather than wood and do not require painting frequently to maintain their integrity. Whatever the material used, all replacement casings should be treated with a paint that is designed for exterior use.