Common Home Window Repair Issues

Windows in a home play a critical role in both its aesthetics and comfort. A home with unclean windows will appear shabby, and drafty windows can cause energy bills to go up to the sky.

Certain window repairs are quick and easy while others require more time and experience. Here are the most frequently-asked window problems that homeowners face:

Cracked Panes

Cracked glass is among the most frequent problems with 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 thin or old, it may crack under the pressure of the wind pressure. A large tree that falls or construction near the window could also cause structural problems.

There are a variety of ways to repair cracks, based on its type. The simplest is to use a clear tape. This will stabilize the crack, keep it from worsening and also protect against bugs and cold winds. This method doesn't offer much protection from rain, however. If you're looking for something a bit more robust, try using a window repair film. It's basically a form of tape that can be cut to size to cover a huge crack. This will make your window insect- and water-proof however it may not look very nice.

Another way to repair a crack in windows is to cover it with a plastic barrier. Make use of a plastic shopping bag or shower curtain to cut a large enough piece to cover the crack. You can use duct tape to fix the plastic to your window. This will create an easy barrier to set up and cost-effective.

A more effective method to repair a crack is to replace the entire pane. It is more time consuming however, it is worth it if looking for a long-lasting and Double glazing window repairs efficient solution. To do this, you'll need remove the broken window from its frame. Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury, and use a utility knife to scrape away any sealant or old glaze putty that's holding the pane in place.

Once the broken pane has been removed, you'll need to clean off the frame and carefully examine the opening for replacement. To take into account expansion and contraction it is important to ensure that the new window has a slightly smaller opening. After the frame has been made, you'll need to set up the glass using new glaziers' points or clips.

Foggy Windows

Foggy windows indicate that the seal on your window has failed, allowing moisture to enter between the glass panes. This could lead to mold, mildew, and rot within the frame. It also decreases the efficiency of your home's energy usage. If you notice that there is a lot of fog between the glass panes of your windows with insulation It's time to call in a professional window repair company.

The most common cause of the fogging of windows is condensation. The process takes place when humid, warm air cools down and condenses on the glass of the window. Foggy windows are typically caused by a significant temperature difference between indoors and outdoors, so condensation is most often seen in winter.

In most instances, the first step is to confirm that the fogging isn't due to grease or dirt buildup in the kitchen. If the fog continues to persist it could be that the seal on the window has failed. The best option is to replace your window with a brand new one that is designed to stop sealing failure. This can also bring additional benefits, such as lower utility costs and improved indoor air quality.

There are many methods to repair windows with foggy glass for homeowners who are at ease doing the work themselves. One option is to replace the entire window sash, including the insulated-glass unit (IGU) as well as the wooden or fiber-glass frame which surrounds the IGU. This repair door method for windows is quite affordable and a brand new IGU comes with an assurance against seal failure for some time.

Dehumidifiers are a great option to get rid of excess moisture between the panes. This process is more labor intensive than the other but it's a great option and sash can help reduce humidity in your home. There are companies who offer this service to people who wish to employ a professional. They inject a dehumidifying fluid between the panes.

Rotted Frames

Wood is susceptible to deterioration when it comes into contact with water. This is a problem that typically is seen in window sills and frames because moisture can seep into the sheath surrounding the wood. If you notice that the wooden trim around your windows is becoming rotten, it's important to act immediately. If it is not addressed the rot may extend to the rest your home, leading to costly doors repairs and replacements. You can prevent rot by caulking and painting your windows regularly. If the damage is serious, more extensive repairs may be required.

If the frame of your damaged windows is structurally sound, you can just replace the part that is rotting. This is a cheaper option than replacing the entire window. You can do it yourself or hire an expert. Start by removing the old timber and exposing the rotting portion. Utilize a pry-bar or a hammer to take out the decayed timber. Be sure to remove all wood, nails and other debris. Then, apply flashing tape to safeguard the area from future water damage.

Then, you should check the remaining wood for signs of rot by pressing on each piece. Healthy wood will stay solid, whereas wood that is rotten will easily depress. Try putting a screwdriver in the wood if you notice any soft spots. The wood should feel soft when the wood is beginning to rot, and it's important to tackle these areas as soon as possible.

Once the rotted area is gone and the area is cleaned, cut a new piece of lumber to replace it. Take a look at the rest of your frame and sills to ensure that the new piece of wood is a good fit. If not, you could make use of wood filler epoxy to fill the gap and match your existing material. After the epoxy has dried you can use different grades sandpapers to smooth the surface and make sure it's level with rest your woodwork.

If the rot is severe it may be necessary to replace the entire frame or sill. This is a costly option however it is worthwhile to stop future damage and to increase the longevity of your window.

Broken Latch

Many homeowners experience an issue with their latch. It's not as severe as a door repair that is broken however it can be a bit annoying. If the latch isn't able to move freely, it could mean that it needs to either be cleaned or lubricated. Spray it liberally with WD-40, and then find something to do while it soaks in. If the latch still doesn't move freely, take it from the door and then separate it from its backing plates and spindle. Make use of a Phillips head screwdriver to take out the screws that run from one side of the backing plate to the other side through the bore hole. Then, take off the knob, spindle and Sash latch assembly.

This problem is caused by a high side pressure on the latch mechanism. The strike plate may be misaligned with the latch hole on the frame. To test this apply lipstick to the latch and then place an adsorbent tape over the strike plate. When you shut the door, the lipstick will mark the area on the tape where the latch meets it. If the marks indicate that it is hitting the strike plate more or less than 1/8 of an inch then loosen the screws on the strike plate and then shift it. If that doesn't help, you may need to use a file to increase the size of your mortise.