Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and ensure their comfort. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage such as broken glass, or a window frame that has been smashed.

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

Broken or cracked Panes

If it's an unintentional rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch that has been blown by strong winds, cracked window glass isn't just visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's typically easy to repair windows that have damaged panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from entering the frame through the crack and cause further damage.

If you have double-pane 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 cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's an extreme temperature difference between your home and the outside. The glass is then able to expand window repairs and shrink. If this happens to two portions of a window it's best to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.

For cracked windows that aren't 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 cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't an end-to-end fix, but it will keep insects out and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows, you should check with your local business to determine whether replacing the entire window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a common issue with windows. It can damage a home's appearance and create a security risk. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you need to make sure that the source of the rot has been addressed. This can be accomplished by looking for roof leaks and gutters that aren't functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

You will then need to remove the rotten parts of the window repairs near me frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. After removing the decayed wood, you'll need replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project since it will resist decay. If you are unable to replace the rotted wood You can try using wood hardener or filler to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the best results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to apply.

You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to shield the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. It is important to follow the directions on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can smooth the wood's surface. It is recommended to begin with a rough layer of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother one.

The last thing you want to do is make the rotted area even worse by exposing it to more water. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the wood sealant that is waterproof.

It won't open

A window that isn't opening could be due to a variety of reasons. The house could have settled or the wooden frames could have warped during rainy weather. There is also the possibility that someone nailed them shut for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows.

One of the main causes of a upvc window repair near me that isn't able to open is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. The buildup of dirt and grime on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, notes Acme Glass. Additionally, metal hardware can get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window operating properly.

Stuck windows may also be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These components can lose their tension and become obstructed especially when the window is at least two stories above the ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Put a piece of wood on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to damage the window or the wood. You can also try running a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and allow it to move more easily.

A broken spring could be the cause of windows that don't raise or lower. You'll need to check your owner's guide for more details depending on the person who made your windows.

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