Window Repairs

window repairs (try what he says) can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes comfortable. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage such as broken glass, or a broken window frame.

Many other issues can be solved to prolong the lifespan of windows. The most frequent issues are:

Cracked or broken panes

If it's an unintentional rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged windows are not just visually unappealing, but also can result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's typically easy to fix windows with cracked panes.

Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need use a utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

If you have double glazed window repairs-pane glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in an expert.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's an extreme temperature difference both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens to two parts of a window it's 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 decent job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing the entry of bugs and 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 insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your older windows it is recommended to contact the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to repair rotted wood. First, you will need to ensure that the source of the rot has been dealt with. This can be accomplished by checking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters or cracked caulking, as well as other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

The next step is to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. After removing the rotten wood, you'll need to replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it is resistant to the onset of rot. If you cannot replace the rotted timber, you can use wood hardener and filler to repair the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at most hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

After you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it is important to protect the repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens for instance, is a great product to apply.

Use a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is important that you follow the directions for application on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry it is possible to sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to more smoother grades.

You don't want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. Therefore, it is a good idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't let you open

A window that won't open could be due to many factors. The house may have settled, or the wood frames might have warped due to humid weather. There is also the possibility that someone nailed them shut for security. 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 won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on hinges, sliding tracks and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal may rust when it comes into contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is operating correctly.

Stuck windows may also be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window. The components may be weakened and window repairs obstructed when they are situated higher than two floors higher than the surface.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Place 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. Try using a hairdryer to dry the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

A faulty spring can also be the reason for windows that aren't able to raise or lower. You'll need to check the owner's manual for window repairs additional details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still won’t open, then it may be time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let your windows go from functional to inoperable, as windows that aren't properly shut can expose your home to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today to learn more about our replacement windows and services!