Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes warm. In the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a damaged frame, window replacement may be required.

But many other issues can be addressed to extend the life of your windows. Common issues include:

Cracked or broken Panes

Whether it's an errant rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree's branch blown by high winds, cracked windows are not just unattractive but can lead to more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with broken panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof around the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from entering through the crack, which can 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 make your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane that's totally missing, it's time to call in an expert.

Thermal stress cracks may also occur when there's an extreme temperature difference inside and outside your home. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens on two parts of a window it's best to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a good job of securing the crack 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 glue it with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it can be useful in a pinch and it keeps insects and cold air away from your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with your local window manufacturer about whether replacing the entire window could be a better alternative for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a security hazard. It is possible to fix rotted wood. First, you must determine the root of the wood rot. This can be done by checking for roof leaks and gutters that aren't functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

You will then need to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done with the use of a chisel, rasp or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been cleared then you must replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this task, since it will resist rot. If you are not able to replace the rotted timber, you can use filler and wood hardener to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will have this type of product. To achieve the best results, follow the instructions on the label.

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 example is a fantastic product to use.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. It is simple to apply and provides a good finish. However, it's important to follow the application instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler dries it is possible to sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move to a smoother grade.

You don't want to expose the rotted part to more moisture. Therefore, it is recommended to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. Then, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

There are many reasons why windows don't open. Wood frames can warp in wet weather, the house may have settled or someone might have closed it to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.

One of the most common causes of a window that isn't able to open is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. In addition, Window repairs metal hardware may get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to help to prevent oxidation and help keep your windows operating correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and get blocked, especially when the window is at least two stories above the ground.

If you're having difficulty opening windows Try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open just a little at each time. Place a wood block on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to damage the window or wood. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it to move more easily.

A broken spring could be the reason for a window that won't raise or lower. You'll need to check the owner's manual for more details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open, it might be time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to unusable since windows that aren't properly shut can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us for more information on our windows replacement and services today!