Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and ensure their comfort. In the event of major damages such as broken glass or a cracked frame, a replacement window repairs near me may be necessary.

But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. Common problems include:

Broken or cracked panes

It's a rock that's been being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may have to 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 with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This will prevent water from getting into the frame through the cracks and cause further damage.

If you have double-pane glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer between the panes and make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the quality of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it might be the time to call a professional.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's an extreme temperature difference inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If this happens on two parts of a window it's best to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that are not yet ready for replacement. It will also keep out cold and bugs. You can cut a piece of nylon stocking or window repair tarp that's sufficient to cover the crack, and glue it in place with duct tape. This isn't a long-term solution, but it works well in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air from entering your home. If you notice cracks appearing on the windows of your old ones it is recommended to contact the local company to determine whether replacing the entire window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a safety danger. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. First, you need to ensure that the cause of the rot has been taken care of. Check for roof leaks and other areas that water may get into the wood.

The next step is to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using a claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been eliminated then you must replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it is resistant to rot. If you are unable to replace the wood that has been damaged You can try using wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. Most hardware stores will have this type of product. To achieve the best results, make sure you follow the directions on the label.

Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this job.

You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to shield 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. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to a smoother grade.

You don't want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. So, it's recommended to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer which will help protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

A window that won't open can be the result of various factors. Wood frames can warp when exposed to rainy weather, or the house could have settled or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. However, with a little patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.

Accumulated debris or gunk could be the main cause of a window not opening. Grime and dirt build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, says Acme Glass. Additionally, metal hardware is prone to rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease will help prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is functioning correctly.

Stuck windows can also be the result of a loosening or breakage of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. The components may lose tension and become obstructed if they are located higher than two floors higher than the surface.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window Repair. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.

Another common problem for windows that aren't opening is a defective spring that prevents the window jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to refer to your owner's guide for more details based on the manufacturer of your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they won’t open, then it may be time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides windows that are energy efficient. Don't let windows in your home go from being functional to unusable. If a window isn't properly shut can leave your home vulnerable for burglary and water damages. Contact us for more information about our windows replacement and services today!