Window Repairs Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a shattered window frame. But there are many other issues that can be addressed to extend the life of your windows. Some common problems include: Cracked or broken Panes Whether it's an errant rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass isn't just ugly, but it can also result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with broken panes. Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have use a utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel. After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's perimeter. This will prevent water from entering the frame through the cracks and cause further damage. A serious crack in double-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If window repairs is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane that's totally missing, it's time to contact an expert. Cracks in thermal stress can occur when there's a significant difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window it is best to replace it rather than try 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 also cut a nylon stocking large enough to completely cover the crack, and then attach it using duct tape. This isn't a long-term solution however it can be useful in a pinch and it keeps insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on the windows of your old ones, you should check with your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is the best option. Rotten Wood Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can alter the appearance of a home and also pose an hazard to safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. You will first need to determine the root of the wood decay. This can be accomplished by checking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning or cracked caulking, as well as 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. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with fresh wood. It is recommended that you choose treated wood for this project since it will be resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the wood that has been damaged You can try using wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. Many hardware stores will carry this type of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the best results. Once you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it is essential to protect the newly-repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task. You can also apply an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is essential to follow the instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you are able to smooth the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to more smoother grades. You do not want to expose the damaged part to further moisture. Therefore, it is an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. Then, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant. The W won't let you open A window that won't open can be caused by a variety of reasons. Wood frames can warp during wet weather, the house might have sunk or someone may have closed it to protect themselves. With a little patience and the right tools, you can open most stuck windows. 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 accumulates over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal can rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will help to prevent oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly. The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or even break. These components can be weakened and obstructed when they are placed higher than two floors above ground. If you have difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Place a block of wood on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage, and be sure not to harm the window or wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily. A damaged spring can be the cause of windows that aren't able to lift or lower. Based on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll have to consult 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 may be time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors offers windows that are energy efficient. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable since a window that isn't properly shut can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us for more information on our replacement windows and services today!
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