Window Repairs

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

But many other issues can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. Some common issues include:

Broken or cracked panes

Cracked windows can be caused by a lawnmowers who throws rocks in the wrong direction or a tree branch being blown by strong winds. This not only looks awful, but it could cause higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air into your home. Fortunately, it's generally easy to repair windows that have broken panes.

Start by carefully removing glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the frame is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This will prevent water from getting into the frame through the cracks and result in further damage.

If you have double-pane glass cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to compromise the quality of the glass or if you have an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to contact an expert.

Cracks in thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens on two portions of a window, it's probably best to replace the window instead of attempting to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack, and then attach it using duct tape. It's not an indefinite solution, but it's a good way to keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows, you should check with your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent issues with windows. It can damage a home's appearance and create a safety danger. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. The first step is to ensure that the cause of the rot has been addressed. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places where water could get into the wood.

You'll then have to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done with the claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project since it is resistant to rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber, you can use wood filler and hardener to reinforce the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores carry this type of product. To get the best results, follow the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is crucial to protect the area. You can do this by applying an water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice for this job.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. It is simple to apply and provides an excellent finish. However, it's important to follow the directions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the surface of the wood. It is best to start with a rough grade of sandpaper and then move to a smoother grade.

The last thing you want to do is make the rotted area even worse by exposed to more water. It is recommended, therefore, to cover the surface repaired with an oil-based prime that will protect it from moisture. Then, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

A window that won't open can be the result of various factors. Wood frames can warp during rainy weather, or the house may have settled or someone may have nailed it shut for window repair security reasons. With a little patience and the right tools you can unlock most stuck windows.

Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major cause of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. In addition, metal hardware is prone to 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 functioning properly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window can be loosened, or break. These components can lose their tension and cause obstruction particularly when the window is two or more stories above the ground.

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

Another common problem for windows that aren't opening is a defective spring that keeps the Window Repair jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional details based on the manufacturer of your windows.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable because a window that isn't properly shut can leave your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows and our services!