It's Time To Forget Window Repair: 10 Reasons Why You Don't Need It

Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. In the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a shattered frame, a replacement window may be required.

Many other problems can be solved to prolong the life of windows. Some common problems include:

Broken or cracked panes

Whether it's an errant rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch blown by strong winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to fix windows with broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the frame's perimeter. This will prevent water from getting into the frame through the crack and causing further damage.

If you have double-pane glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer that lies between the panes and make your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to contact a professional.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's a significant temperature difference between your home and the outside. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a glass, it is recommended to replace it rather than attempt to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that are not yet ready to be replaced. It will also keep out cold winds and bugs. You can also cut a nylon stocking large enough to completely cover the crack and window doctor near me glue it with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it can be useful in a pinch and it keeps cold air and insects from entering your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass It's an excellent idea to talk with the local window company to determine if replacing the entire window would be the best option for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can damage a home's appearance and pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. You will first need to identify the cause of the wood decay. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water can enter the wood.

Next, you will need to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with a claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been eliminated it is time to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this task, since it will resist rot. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber you can apply wood hardener and filler to repair the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To get the best results, follow the instructions on the label.

Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. You can do this by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice for this job.

Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood against further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it's important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to an easier grade.

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

The Won't open

The reason a window won't open can be the result of various factors. Wood frames can warp in rainy weather, or the house could have settled or someone may have closed it for security reasons. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, most windows that are locked can be opened.

Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major reason of the window replacement near me not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. In addition, metal hardware is prone to get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating well.

The pulleys used to raise or lower the window can become loose, or even break. These parts can lose their tension and become obstructed particularly when the window is at least two stories above the ground.

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

Another common issue with windows that won't open is a faulty spring that keeps the window jamb from rising or lowering. You will need to consult the owner's manual for additional information depending on who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they're still not opening It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows go from functional to unusable since windows that aren't properly closed can make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact us for more information about our replacement windows and services today!