Common Home Window Repair Issues

Windows in a home play a significant role in both its aesthetics and its comfort. Window that are ugly can make a home look shabby, and drafty windows send energy bills skyrocketing.

Certain window repairs are simple and quick, whereas others require more knowledge and time. Here are some of the most frequently encountered issues that homeowners face with their windows:.

Cracked Panes

Cracked glass is one of the most common issues in window repairs. This can be caused by a variety of causes, including weather. Winds that are strong can cause windows to break. If the glass is very thin or old, it may break under the stress of the wind pressure. A large tree that is falling over or construction happening nearby could cause structural issues that make the window more likely to break.

Depending on the type of crack, there are various methods to fix it. The simplest way to fix cracks is with clear tape. This will strengthen the crack and keep it from getting worse, while also preventing insects and cold air. This method doesn't offer much protection from rain, however. If you're looking for something more durable, use a window repair double glazed window tape. It's basically tape on steroids and can be cut to size to cover a large crack. This will keep your window from insects and water however it might not look as appealing.

A barrier made of plastic is a different way to repair a cracked window. You could use a shower curtain, tarp, or shopping bag, and just cut a piece big enough to cover the crack. Attach the plastic to the window with duct tape, and you'll get a cost-effective barrier that is easy to install and keeps out the elements.

A more serious way to repair a cracked window is to replace the entire pane. It is more time consuming, but worth it if seeking a long-lasting and effective solution. To do this, you'll have to take the broken window out of its frame. Wear safety glasses and gloves to avoid injuries. Use a utility blade to scrape off any old sealant or glazing glue that is holding the window to its the frame.

After the damaged pane has been removed you'll need to clean off the frame and then carefully measure the opening for a replacement. To be able to account for the expansion and contraction, you'll want to make sure the new window has a slightly smaller opening. After the frame has been prepared, you will have to put the glass in using new glaziers' points or clips.

Foggy Windows

Foggy windows can be an indication of a damaged window seal that allows moisture be able to get inside the glass panes. This can lead to mold, mildew and decay within the frame. It can also affect the energy efficiency of your home. If you notice a clouding between your windows' insulated glass panes then it's time to call a professional window company.

Condensation is by far the most common cause for a fogged window. This occurs when moist, warm air cools and condenses on the cold glass of a windows. Foggy windows can be caused by the large temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. This is why they are most common in winter.

In most cases, the first step is to make sure that the fogging is not due to dirt or grease buildup in the kitchen. If the fogging continues it could be because the seal on the window has failed. The best solution is to replace the upvc window repair near me with a brand new one that is designed to prevent the failure of the seal. This will also provide additional benefits, such as lower utility bills and better indoor air quality.

There are a variety of methods to repair the foggy glass of a window for homeowners who are comfortable doing the work themselves. One alternative is to replace the entire window sash, including the IGU, also known as the insulated-glass unit (IGU) as well as the fiber-glass frame or wooden frame that surrounds the IGU. This method is relatively cheap and nearby a brand new IGU comes with a warrantee that covers leaks for a specified period of time.

Dehumidifiers can be used to remove moisture that is trapped between the panes. This method is more labor intensive than other options, but it can be efficient and comes with the benefit of reducing the amount of humidity in your home. If you want to employ an expert to handle this window repair, there are companies which provide an option that injects a special dehumidifying solution into the space between the panes of the glass.

Frames that are rotten

When wood meets water, it can quickly become damaged. This is a common problem that impacts window sills and frames because moisture can seep into the wood's sheath. If you notice that the wood trim around your windows is beginning to rot, it's important to act quickly. If not taken care of the rot may extend to the rest your home, resulting in costly repairs and replacements. You can deter decay by caulking regularly and paint your windows. If the damage is serious and extensive, more extensive repairs might be required.

If the frame of your damaged windows is structurally sound you can just replace the part that is rotting. This is less expensive than replacing the entire window. You can do this yourself or hire a professional to help you out. Start by removing any existing timber to expose decaying areas. Utilize a prybar and an hammer to break up the decayed timber. Make sure you remove all wood, nails, and debris. Install flashing tape over the area to guard it from further water damage.

Press down on each piece of wood to look for signs of rot. The healthy wood will remain firm, whereas rotten wood will depress easily. Try pressing a screwdriver into the wood if you spot any soft areas. The texture should feel spongy in the event that the wood is decaying and it is important to take care of these areas as quickly as possible.

After the rotted portion is removed and the area is cleaned, cut a new piece lumber to replace it. Verify that the new piece of wood is in good alignment with the frame and sills. If not, make use of wood filler epoxy to smooth the gap and match your existing material. Once the epoxy has dried, you can use different grades sandpapers to smooth the surface, and ensure it's level with rest your woodwork.

If the rot is too serious it may be necessary to replace the entire frame or sill. This is a more expensive option, but it's worth the investment to avoid further decay and increase the longevity of your windows.

Broken Latch

Many homeowners experience an issue with their latch. It's not as bad as a broken front door repairs but it can be a source of frustration. If the latch isn't moving freely, it may be that it needs to be lubricated or cleaned. Spray it with WD-40 and look for something to do while it soaks in. If the latch doesn't move freely, remove it from the door and then separate it from its spindle and backing plates. Make use of a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that run from one end of the backing plate to the other side through the bore hole, and then remove the spindle, knob, and latch assembly.

The issue is usually caused by too much side pressure on the latch and the mechanisms inside of it. It can also happen when the strike plate isn't aligned with the hole for the latch inside the frame. To test this apply lipstick to the latch and then place an adsorbent tape over the strike plate. The lipstick will mark on the tape the location where the latch touches when you close the door. If the marks indicate that the latch is hitting the strike plate more than 1/8 inch high or low then loosen the strike plate screws and move it. If that doesn't work you may need to expand the mortise on the strike plate using the help of a file.