Window Repairs

Window upvc door repairs near me can save homeowners money and make their homes warm. Window replacement is often required in the event of serious damage like broken glass or a broken window frame.

Many other problems are fixable to extend the life of windows. Some common problems include:

Broken or cracked Panes

Glass that is cracked can be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks at the wrong time or window repairs branches of trees being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually bad, but it can also lead to more energy costs because broken glass lets cold air into your house. Luckily, it's typically easy to repair windows that have cracked panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.

After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof around the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

If you have double glazing repairs-paned glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or if you have an inner pane completely missing, it's time to contact an expert.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a window it is recommended to replace it instead of attempt to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a great job of securing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This is not an indefinite solution, but it can keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on your windows that are older, you should check with your local business to determine whether replacing the entire window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent issues with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and create a safety risk. However, it is possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you need to make sure that the source of the rot has been taken care of. This can be accomplished by checking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

Next, you will need to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using the claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been removed then you must replace them with new wood. It is recommended that you make use of pre-treated wood for this project as it will be resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the timber that has rotted you can apply filler and wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the best results.

After you have replaced the decayed 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 example is a great one to apply.

Make use of a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is important to adhere to the instructions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler has dried, you can smooth the wood's surface. It is best to start with a rough layer of sandpaper and then move to a smoother grade.

You do not want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. Therefore, it is an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't open

A window that isn't opening can be caused by many factors. Wood frames can warp in rainy weather, or the house may have settled or someone may have nailed it shut for security reasons. With a little patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows.

Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major cause of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window operating well.

Stuck windows may be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the window. These parts can lose tension and become obstructed when they are placed at least two floors above the surface.

If you are having trouble opening windows, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open just a little at a time. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be sure not to harm the window or wood. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and allow it move more easily.

A faulty spring can also be the cause of a window that won't raise or lower. Based on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll be required to refer to the owner's manual for additional instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they still cannot open, it's time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides windows that are energy efficient. Don't let your windows slip from functional to inoperable because windows that aren't properly closed can make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows as well as our services!