Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. 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 repaired to extend the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Broken or cracked Panes

It's a rock that's been being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch blown by strong winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electric bills since the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to fix windows with cracked panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen 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 using a soft cloth or paper towel.

After the area is cleaned, apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This will prevent water from entering the frame through the crack and result in further damage.

A crack that is severe in double-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, rendering your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the quality of the glass or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens on two windows it's best to simply replace the pane instead of attempting to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that are not yet ready to be replaced. It can also keep out cold winds and bugs. You can cut a nylon stocking large enough to completely cover the crack, and then attach it using duct tape. This is not an indefinite solution, but it's a good way to keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on the windows of your old ones, you should check with the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent issue with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. You will first need to address the cause of the wood decay. Look for leaks on the roof and other areas that water may get into the wood.

The next step is to take out any 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 project since it is more resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the timber that has rotted you can apply filler and window repair wood hardener to repair the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. To get the best results, make sure you follow the instructions on the product label.

Once you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens, for example is a fantastic product to use.

You can also apply an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and provides an excellent finish. However, it's important to follow the directions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler has dried, you can sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, and then move on to more smoother grades.

You don't want to expose the rotted part to more moisture. It is a good idea therefore, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based prime which will shield it from water. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

The reason a window won't open could be due to a variety of reasons. Wood frames can warp when exposed to humid weather, the house could have settled or someone may have closed it for security reasons. With a little patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.

The accumulation of gunk or debris could be the main cause of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease will help prevent oxidation and keep your window working correctly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and cause obstruction especially when the window is two or more stories higher than the ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Put 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 repair near me. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer across 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 don't lift or lower. You'll need to check your owner's guide for more details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and 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 your windows slide from functional to unusable, as a window Repair that isn't properly shut could leave your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us for more information on our replacement windows and services today!