Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention

A window that is broken, cracked or completely gone will usually require professional attention. It's difficult for DIYers to not create more problems by fixing cracked glass.

Start by identifying the issue. Gather your tools and prepare your work area and take the necessary safety precautions. Making preparations for the window repair project in advance will help you save money and lessen frustration.

Broken Panes

An errant baseball or pebble thrown from a lawnmower blade or bird flying into a window can damage glass panes. Your windows may need professional repair or replacement depending on the type of window glass and the method by which it was installed. Window replacement is a major project that requires the removal of sash (the part of the window which holds the panes) from the frame. You will need a contractor who is skilled in the task and will need to have the proper window on hand before beginning work. A professional with experience will take out the current IGU (insulated glass unit) and replace it with a new one in its place. They will put back the sash in place, Repair Window replace the casing, and caulk the joints to keep moisture out.

If you are replacing a single window pane, the initial step is to clear all glass shards from the area around the broken piece. It is also necessary to remove the glazing compound and the metal glazing points that held the old pane in place. Wear gloves and safety glasses while doing this. Small chips of glass can cause permanent eye injuries. The use of heat guns is to soften the old putty to the point that you can scrape it off with an utility knife.

After removing the old window pane, measure the dimensions of the window's opening and transfer them to the new one. Make sure you subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height of the old frame to allow for expansion and contraction. Cover the new frame with either silicone caulk or traditional glazing putty.

Place the new pane in the window, and then apply a bead of caulk to seal the joint between the frame and the glass. Let the caulk dry before putting the sash into the frame. Paint the frame to hide the nails and to give it a polished, clean look. Contact a local glass manufacturer for an estimate if you need assistance with replacing windows. A certified, skilled professional can safely complete the project and ensure your windows are protected from the elements.

Broken Seals

A window seal forms an air barrier that keeps the air in your home warm and minimizes energy transfer. Unfortunately, these seals could get damaged in time due to problems like fluctuating temperatures and humidity. If you notice a buildup or fogginess inside or outside of your windows, this could be a sign that your seals aren't working properly.

A reputable window company can repair window seals with relative ease. A window repair service can usually finish the job in an hour or less. To repair a damaged window seal, the window repair service will defog the windows, fill in the gap with Krypton gas or argon to insulate and then reseal the glass unit, but without allowing gas to escape.

Once your windows are sealed they will be able to provide the same insulation benefits they did before becoming foggy. You'll be able to see that your windows are more difficult to open and close than they were before. It may seem like a minor inconvenience but it could indicate that your window's sash is in need to be repaired or replaced.

If your windows are still under warranty, it is always advisable to contact the manufacturer to see about the possibility of a replacement. Based on the condition of your windows, you may be able to get a new IGU (insulated glass unit) at no cost to you.

If you are unsure whether to replace or repair windows due to the fact that window seals have failed, it is best to replace them. This will prevent this issue from occurring in the future and save you money in the long-term on costly repairs to double glazing windows. Additionally, replacing your existing windows with double glazing windows repairs or triple pane windows can dramatically increase the efficiency of insulation in your home. The newer windows are much more eco-friendly than single pane windows that were previously used.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot on the sill, frame or mullions can not only be ugly, but it can also cause structural damage. Fortunately, it's possible to fix rotting wood, and a professional carpenter can complete the task quickly and effectively. The most important step is to identify and eliminate the source of moisture.

This could require you to inspect the exterior repair window of your house. Look for wood that has been in contact with dirt, masonry or drip caps. Be on the lookout for signs of excess moisture such as peeling or blistering paint, a darkened look and algae that is growing on top of the wood. Also, make sure to examine the floor beams frames, joints and framing to determine if the wood has rotted away.

Dry Rot is a fungus that can cause wood to be damaged from the inside. Although this isn't as destructive as wet rot, it could still cause serious issues. It can also cause a lot of harm and weaken other materials that come into contact with the affected wood like mortar, cement and concrete.

Dry Rot can be treated with epoxy resins, making the wood more durable and stronger. The product is available in two types: fillers and penetrants. The penetrants are a high-strength adhesive putty with no shrinkage that can be used for reinforcing and rebuilding rotted wood or other materials used in structures. It is a hard, solid substance that is not affected by water or insects.

Fillers are high-strength adhesive pastes that do not shrink. They can be used to fill in holes or gaps. They are simple to use, but precision is essential. It is recommended that the area is cleaned prior to application to remove any slender or splintered pieces of decayed wood, and it is recommended to prime the area before applying the epoxy to ensure proper adhesion.

In certain situations, a large area of rotted wood is so severe that it is required to replace the window. A professional can assess the situation and provide advice.

Refusal to Open

A window that isn't able to open can be an incredibly frustrating problem. It's not just frustrating however, it could be dangerous if one is trying to escape a burning building, or simply wants some fresh air. Fortunately, windows that are difficult to open can be fixed with certain troubleshooting steps.

Check for dirt and grime If your double glazed windows repair-hung or single-hung windows aren't able to open or close. Over time, dust and dirt will build up inside the window frame, leading to friction that makes it difficult to move the sash. Cleaning the windows and spraying them with lubricant will often fix this issue.

Moisture is another common cause of windows that stick. Wood will absorb moisture over time, which causes it to swell. This can lead to cracks, rotting and warping. The moisture can also cause damage to paint, causing the frame to shift out of alignment. This could cause the window channels to no longer align with the window, making it impossible to fully open or close the window.

If you find that lubricating the hinges and reinstalling broken screws does not solve the problem, it may be time to call in experts to repair your window. This is an even more complex process and will require removing the window sash. This is generally only recommended for people who are accustomed to working with power tools. If the window is broken and needs to be replaced entirely. Depending on the condition and type of window, you may need to replace all the windows in your home. A professional can help determine which option is right for your home.