The Window Repair Case Study You'll Never Forget

Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and keep their homes comfortable. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of serious damage like broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.

Many other problems can be solved to prolong the longevity of windows. Common problems include:

Cracked or broken panes

Cracked window glass can be caused by a lawnmowers who throws rocks in the wrong direction or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually awful, but it could result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly simple to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to wipe the surface of both the glass and the wood of the frame.

Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the perimeter of the frame. This will prevent water from leaking into the frame through the crack and result in further damage.

A serious crack in double glazing repairs-paned glass may cause gas to leak between the panes, which can make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane that's totally missing, it's the time to call an expert.

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

Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that are not yet ready for replacement. It also keeps out cold and bugs. You can cut the length of a nylon stocking to completely cover the crack and glue it with duct tape. This isn't a long-term solution, but it works well in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks on your windows that are older it is recommended to contact your local company to see if replacing the whole window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and pose a safety danger. However, it is possible to fix rotted wood. The first step is to make sure that the cause of the rot has been addressed. This can be done by checking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

Next, you will need to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using the use of a chisel, rasp or claw hammer. Once the rotten areas have been cleared it is time to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project, as it will resist the onset of rot. If you are unable to replace the wood damaged by rot, you can try using wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the instructions on the product label.

After you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. A product like Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task.

Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it's important that you follow the directions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the wood's surface. It is recommended to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper, and then progress to a smoother grade.

The most important thing you don't want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by exposing it to more water. It is a good idea, therefore, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based primer that will protect it from water. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

The W 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 could have closed it for security reasons. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can unlock most stuck windows.

The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major reason of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. Additionally, metal hardware can rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease will help prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is working well.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window can become loose, or break. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed higher than two floors above the surface.

If you're having difficulty opening a window try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open a bit at each time. Place a wood block on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage. Also, be sure not to harm the window 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.

A damaged spring can be the reason for a window that won't lift or lower. Depending on who manufactured the windows, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they aren't opening, it's probably time to replace them. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let windows in your home go from being functional to unusable. If a window isn't properly shut could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us to learn more about our replacement windows and services today!