Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make 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 problems can be fixed to extend the life of windows. Some common problems include:

Cracked or Broken Panes

If it's an unintentional rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch blown by strong winds, cracked window glass isn't just visually unappealing, but also can result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces let cold air into your home. It's relatively easy to repair windows with damaged panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof around the frame's perimeter. This will prevent water from entering the frame through the cracks and causing further damage.

If you have double glazed window repairs-pane glass cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is so severe that it compromises the strength of the window or the pane inside is not there you might need to call an expert.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature both inside and outside your home. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens across two portions of a window it's best to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a good job of stabilizing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut the length of a nylon stocking to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. It's not an end-to-end solution, but it's a good way to keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows You should consult your local company to see if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent issues with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and can also be a safety risk. It is, however, possible to fix 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 roof leaks, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.

The next step is to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be accomplished with a claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been removed, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project since it will resist the onset of rot. If you are unable replace the wood damaged by rot You can try using filler or wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores carry this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. A product like Sikkens is a great choice to accomplish this task.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. This product is easy to apply and provides a good finish. However, it is very important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries, you can sand down the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to a smoother grade.

The final thing you would like to do is make the rotted area even worse by expose it to more water. It is a good idea, therefore, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based prime that will protect it from water. Then, you can apply the wood sealant that is waterproof.

Won't Open

The reason a window won't open can be caused by a variety of reasons. The house may have settled or the wooden frames might have warped due to wet weather. Someone might have also put them in place to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open most stuck windows.

The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major cause of the window not opening. The buildup of dirt and grime on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will help to prevent oxidation and help keep your windows operating correctly.

The pulleys used to raise or lower the window may become loose, or break. These components can lose tension and cause obstruction if they are located at least two floors above surface.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Put a piece of wood on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage, and be careful not to damage the window or wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and allow it to move more easily.

A damaged spring can be the reason for a Window Repair that won't lift or lower. You'll need to check 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 lubricating them, but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to inoperable. A window that isn’t properly shut could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows and services!