Check Out: How Window Repair Is Taking Over And How To Stop It
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Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes comfortable. Window replacement is often required in the event of serious damage like broken glass or a shattered window frame.
Many other issues can be fixed to extend the lifespan of windows. The most frequent issues are:
Cracked or Broken Panes
Cracked window glass could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. It's not just visually awful, but it could also lead to higher energy bills as broken glass lets cold air into your home. It's relatively easy to repair windows with damaged panes.
Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to break loose any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame with a soft cloth or paper towel.
Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This will prevent water from leaking into the frame through the crack and causing further damage.
If you have double-paned glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is so severe that it threatens the integrity of the window or the pane inside is not there you might need to call an expert.
Cracks in thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperature between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens across two windows it's recommended to simply replace the pane instead of attempting to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that aren't yet ready to be replaced. It can also keep out cold winds and bugs. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This is 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 old and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass It's recommended to consult with your local window company about whether replacing the entire window might be a better solution for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can damage a home's appearance and pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. You will first need to identify the cause of the wood's rot. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water could get into the wood.
Next, you will need to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After removing the rotten wood, you'll need to replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this task, since it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the rotted wood, you can try using wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at most hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to get the best results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this task.
Use a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and provides an excellent finish. However, it is important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry you can sand the wood's website surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to more smoother grades.
The most important thing you don't want to do is make the area that is rotting even more by expose it to more water. It is a good idea, that's why you should cover the surface repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.
The W won't open
There are a variety of reasons a window won't open. Wood frames can warp in humid weather, the house may have settled or someone could have closed it to protect themselves. With a little patience and the right tools, you can unlock most stuck windows.
The accumulation of gunk or debris could be the main cause of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. In addition, metal hardware is prone to get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease will help prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is operating well.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window could be loosened, or break. These parts can lose their tension and cause obstruction particularly when the window is two or more stories higher than the ground.
If you have trouble opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently open the door. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch 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 aren't able to raise or lower. Based on the manufacturer of your windows, you will be required to refer to the owner's manual for additional instructions.
If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows go from functional to unusable, as a window that isn't properly shut could leave your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows and services!