One Window Repair Success Story You'll Never Remember
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Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. Window replacement is often required in the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.
Many other issues are fixable to extend the longevity of windows. The most frequent issues are:
Broken or cracked Panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. It's not just visually bad, but it can cause higher energy bills because the broken pieces allow cold air into your house. Fortunately, it's generally easy to fix windows with broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or old glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Next, use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe the surface of the glass and wood of the frame.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from entering through the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
A serious crack in double-paned glass may compromise the gas between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is so severe that it compromises the strength of the window, or if the inner pane is missing it is possible to consult an expert.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there is an extreme temperature difference both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens to two parts of a window it's recommended to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.
For cracked windows that aren't quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a decent job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp sufficient to cover the crack and fix it with duct tape. This isn't an indefinite solution, but it can keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your windows that are older 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 common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety danger. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. You will first need to identify the cause of the wood decay. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places where water could get into the wood.
You will then need to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done with a claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After removing the rotten wood, you'll have to replace it with new wood. It is recommended to use pre-treated wood for this task as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber then you can use wood filler and hardener to strengthen the damaged area. Many hardware stores will sell this kind of product. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the most effective results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. A product like Sikkens is a great choice for this get more info task.
You can also use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it's important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you are able to sand the surface of the wood. It is recommended to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper before moving to a smoother one.
The last thing you would like to do is make the area that has been damaged by exposing it to more water. It is therefore a good idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. Then, you can reapply waterproof wood sealant.
The Won't open
There are a variety of reasons a window won't open. Wood frames can warp during humid weather, the house could have settled or someone might have nailed it shut to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, many windows that are stuck can be opened.
One of the main reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. In addition, metal hardware may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will help prevent oxidation, and help keep your windows operating properly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window may become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and cause obstruction especially if the window is located two or more stories above the ground.
If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Place a wood block on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage, and be careful not to scratch the window or wood. 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 damaged spring can be the cause of windows that don't raise or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional instructions.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they still won't open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows of your home go from functional to unusable. If a window isn't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows as well as our services!