One Window Repair Success Story You'll Never Remember

Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and ensure their comfort. In the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a shattered frame, Window Doctor replacement may be necessary.

Many other problems are fixable to extend the life of windows. Some common problems include:

Cracked or broken Panes

If it's an unintentional rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree's branch blown by strong winds, cracked window glass is not only ugly, but it can also result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's typically simple to repair windows with damaged panes.

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

After the area is cleaned then apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This helps prevent water from entering through the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

If you have double-paned glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer that lies between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it might be time to call in a professional.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a glass, it is best to replace it rather than attempt 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 the entry of bugs and cold air. You can cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. This isn't 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 or blemishes on the windows of your old ones it is recommended to contact the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent issues with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is possible to fix the wood that has rotted. You will first need to identify the cause of the wood's decay. This can be done by looking for roof leaks, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

The next step is to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After removing the rotten wood, you'll have to replace it with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project since it is resistant to rot. If you are unable replace the rotted wood You can try using wood filler or hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the best results.

Once you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. This can be done by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to use.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. This product is easy to apply and provides an excellent finish. It is essential to follow the directions on the label. After the epoxy filler dries you can sand the surface of the wooden. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper and then move to a smoother one.

You don't want to expose your damaged part to further moisture. It is a good idea, so, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based primer which will shield it from moisture. After that, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't open

A window that isn't opening can be the result of a variety of factors. The house could have settled or the wooden frames could have warped during wet weather. There is also the possibility that someone put them in place to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, many windows that are locked can be opened.

One of the main causes of a window that isn't opening is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware can also rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas to help prevent oxidation, and ensure that your windows are operating well.

Stuck windows could also be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These parts can lose their tension and become obstructed especially when the window doctor is two or more stories above the ground.

If you have difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

A broken spring could be the cause of windows that aren't able to lift or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, you will need to refer to your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they cannot open, it's probably time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides windows that are energy efficient. Don't let your windows slip from functional to inoperable because a window that isn't properly closed can leave your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact our team for more information about our replacement windows and services today!