Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. In the event of serious damages such as broken glass or a cracked frame, window replacement may be necessary.

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

Broken or cracked Panes

Whether it's an errant rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree's branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. Fortunately, it's generally easy to fix windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and safety glasses. You may have to use an utility knife to loosen old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from entering the frame through the cracks and causing further damage.

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

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there is a drastic difference in temperature inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window it is best to replace it instead of 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 securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering 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 isn't a permanent solution, but it works well in a pinch and keeps cold air and insects out of your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass, it's recommended to consult with the local window company regarding whether replacing the entire window might be a better alternative for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you need to ensure that the source of the rot has been taken care of. This can be done by looking for roof leaks, missing gutters cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.

Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with a claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After removing the decayed wood, repair window you'll need replace it with fresh wood. It is recommended that you choose treated wood for this task as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the wood damaged by rot, you can try using filler or wood hardener to repair Window 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 efficient 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 on the wood. A product like Sikkens is a good choice for this job.

You can also use a two-part epoxy filler to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it's important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the wood's surface. It is best to start with a rough layer of sandpaper before moving to a smoother one.

The final thing you want to do is to make the area that is rotting even more by exposing it to more water. It is recommended, that's why you should cover the surface repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from water. After that, you can apply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.

The W won't let you open

There are many reasons why a window won't open. The house could have settled or the wooden frames may have warped in rainy weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. With a little patience and the right tools, you can unlock most stuck windows.

One of the most frequent reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated gunk or debris on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is working correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. The components may be weakened and obstructed when they are situated two or more floors higher than the ground.

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

A damaged spring can be the cause of windows that aren't able to raise or lower. Based on the manufacturer of your windows, you'll have to consult the owner's manual for additional instructions.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they still won't open, it might be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows of your home become functional to unusable. If your windows aren't properly closed could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact our team today for more information about our replacement upvc windows repair and our services!