Why People Don't Care About Window Repair
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage such as broken glass, or a shattered window frame.
But there are many other issues that can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:
Cracked or broken Panes
It's a rock that's been that was tossed by your lawnmowers or a tree branch that has been blown by strong winds, cracked windows are not just visually unappealing, but also can result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may have 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 paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame.
Once the area is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the crack and cause further damage.
A crack that is severe in double-paned glass could compromise the gas between the panes, rendering your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it's the time to call a professional.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window it is best to replace it instead of try to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that aren't yet ready to be replaced. It will also keep out cold and bugs. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack and glue it with duct tape. This isn't an indefinite solution, but it's a good way to keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If your windows are old and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with the local window company to determine if replacing the entire window might be a better alternative for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a common problem for windows. It can ruin the appearance of a home and can also be danger to your safety. However, it is possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you must identify the cause of the wood decay. Look for leaks on the roof and other places where water can enter the wood.
Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been removed, you will need to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project, as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the timber that has rotted, you can use wood filler and hardener to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will sell this kind of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to achieve the best results.
After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is crucial to safeguard the newly repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to use.
You can also use a two-part epoxy filler to shield the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it's important to adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough piece of sandpaper and then move to a smoother grade.
The last thing you want to do is make the area that has been damaged by exposing it to more water. It is a good idea therefore, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based prime which will shield it from moisture. After that, you can apply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.
The Won't open
There are many reasons windows don't open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to rainy weather, or 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.
One of the most frequent reasons for windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of debris or gunk 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 if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to help to prevent oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.
The pulleys used to raise or lower the window may become loose, or even break. These parts can lose tension and cause obstruction if they are located at least two floors above the ground.
If window repair have trouble opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the door. Place a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.
A faulty spring can also be the reason for a window that won't raise or lower. Depending on who manufactured the windows, you'll need to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open, it might be time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let windows in your home become functional to unusable. A window that isn’t properly shut can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us today for more information about our replacement windows as well as our services!