20 Fun Details About Window Repair

Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and keep their homes comfortable. In the event of serious damages, like broken glass or a shattered frame, a window replacement could be necessary.

But many other issues can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. Some common issues include:

Broken or cracked Panes

If it's an unintentional rock that was tossed by your lawnmowers or a tree's branch blown by high winds, damaged windows are not just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let 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 glasses. You may need to use a utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, use a gentle cloth or paper towel to clean the surface of both the glass and the frame's wood.

After the area is cleaned then apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the frame's perimeter. This helps prevent water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

A bad crack in double-paned glass could cause gas to leak between the panes, making your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious 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 occur when there's an extreme temperature difference between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If this happens on two portions of a upvc window repair near me it's recommended to replace the window rather than trying to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and stick it to the wall using duct tape. It's not an end-to-end solution, but it's a good way to keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's a good idea to check with your local window company regarding whether replacing the entire window could be the best solution for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a security hazard. It is possible to fix damaged wood. First, you need to ensure that the cause of the rot has been taken care of. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places where water could get into the wood.

The next step is to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be done using a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After the rotten areas have been removed, you will need to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, wooden since it will resist rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber you can apply filler and wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. To achieve the best results, follow the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. You can do this by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens, for example is a fantastic product to apply.

You can also use an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it's important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries you can sand the surface of the wooden. It is recommended to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper and then move to a smoother one.

You don't want to expose your damaged area to more moisture. It is a good idea, therefore, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from water. Then, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

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There are many reasons why windows won't open. The house could have settled or the wooden frames might have warped due to humid weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open most stuck windows.

One of the main reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated 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. In addition, metal hardware may rust when it comes into contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can help to prevent oxidation and keep your window operating properly.

The pulleys used to raise or lower the window may become loose, or even break. These components can lose their tension and get blocked especially if the window is located at least two stories above the ground.

If you're having trouble opening windows, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at one time. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.

A broken spring could be the cause of windows that don't raise or lower. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional information depending on who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they aren't opening, it's probably time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors offers windows that are energy efficient. Don't let your windows go from functional to unusable because a window that isn't properly shut could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us today for more information on our replacement windows and services!