Window Repairs

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

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

Broken or cracked panes

Cracked window doctor near me glass could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws errant rocks or by branches of trees being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually awful, but it could also lead to more energy costs because the broken pieces allow cold air into your house. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may need use a utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

If you have double-pane glass cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it's time to contact a professional.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's a significant difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens across two windows it's best to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not yet ready to be replaced clear tape can do a great job of stabilizing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can even cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp that's large enough to cover the crack and stick it to the wall using duct tape. It's not an end-to-end solution, but it's a good way to keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your windows that are older it is recommended to contact your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most frequent issues with windows. It can affect the appearance of a house and also pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. You will first need to address the cause of the wood decay. Examine for leaks in the roof and other areas where water can enter the wood.

The next step is to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After the rotten areas have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this task, since it will resist decay. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber you can apply filler and wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product can be found in a lot of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the instructions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a great choice for this job.

Make use of a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is very important to adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to an easier grade.

You don't want to expose the damaged part to further moisture. It is a good idea therefore, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based primer that will protect it from water. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

There are many reasons why windows won't open. Wood frames can warp in rainy weather, or the house may have settled or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open the majority of stuck windows.

Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major reason of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal may get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease will help prevent corrosion and keep your window functioning correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window can be loosened, or break. These parts can be weakened and obstructed when they are situated higher than two floors higher than the surface.

If you are having trouble opening the window Try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at one time. Put a block in the frame of the Window Doctor Near Me to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it to move more easily.

Another common issue with windows that won't open is a faulty spring that stops the window jamb from lowering or rising. You'll need to check the owner's manual for additional details based on the manufacturer of your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still cannot open, it's probably time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors offers energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let your windows slide from functional to unusable because a window that isn't properly shut can make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today for more information about our replacement windows and our services!