Window Repairs
Window repairs can save homeowners money and help keep their homes warm. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.
Other issues are fixable to extend the longevity of windows. window repair include:
Cracked or broken panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmower that throws errant rocks or by branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This not only looks terrible, but it could cause higher energy bills as the broken pieces allow cold air in to your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to fix windows with damaged panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the glass's surface and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's edges. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the crack and result in 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 insulative. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or if you have an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens to two windows it's best to simply replace the pane rather than trying to repair it.
If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a decent job of securing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack and glue it with duct tape. This is not a permanent fix, but it will keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If your windows are older and you're starting to notice cracks in the glass, it's recommended to consult with your local window manufacturer regarding whether replacing the entire window might be the best alternative 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 hazard. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. First, you will need to make sure that the cause of the rot has been taken care of. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water could get into 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 rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it is resistant to the onset of rot. If you are unable to replace the wood damaged by rot then you can use filler or wood hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores have this type of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the most effective results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's crucial to protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to apply.
You can also use an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and provides an excellent finish. However, it is very important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry it is possible to sand the surface of the wooden. It is best to start with a rough layer of sandpaper and then move to a smoother grade.
The most important thing you don't would like to do is make the rotted area even worse by expose it to more water. So, it's recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will shield it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the wood sealant that is waterproof.
The W won't let you open
The reason a window won't open can be caused by various factors. The house could have settled, or the wood frames might have warped due to humid weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. However, with a little patience and the right tools, all windows that are locked can be opened.
One of the main causes of windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of debris or gunk on its moving parts. Grime and dirt build up on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, notes Acme Glass. Additionally, hardware made of metal can be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will help to prevent oxidation and keep your windows functioning well.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window may become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and get blocked, especially if the window is located two or more stories above the ground.
If you're having difficulty opening a window Try using a pry bar to gently force the window open a little at each time. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. You can also try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and allow it to move more easily.
Another issue with windows that won't open is a defective spring that stops the window jamb from rising or lowering. Depending on who manufactured your windows, you'll have to consult your owner's manual for further instructions.
If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still cannot open, it's probably time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides windows that are energy efficient. Don't let the windows of your home become functional to useless. If a window isn't properly closed could expose your home to burglary and water damages. Contact our team for more information on our windows replacement services and products today!