Why No One Cares About Window Repair

upvc window repair near me Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and keep their homes warm. Window replacement is often required in the event of serious damage such as broken glass, or a broken window frame.

Other issues are fixable to extend the lifespan of windows. The most frequent issues are:

Broken or cracked panes

Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This is not only visually terrible, but it could result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air into your home. It's relatively easy to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and safety glasses. You may have to employ a utility knife to remove any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle cloth or paper towel to wipe the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame.

Once the area is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the perimeter of the frame. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

If you have double-paned glass, cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the quality of the glass or if you have an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be the time to call an expert.

Thermal stress cracks may also occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a window it is recommended to replace it rather than try to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to fill cracks in windows that aren't yet ready to be replaced. It will also keep out cold winds and bugs. You can also cut a nylon stocking large enough to cover the entire crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution, but it works well in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air out of your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's recommended to consult with the local window company about whether replacing the entire window might be the best option for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can affect the appearance of a house and it can also pose danger to your safety. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you must determine the root of the wood rot. Check for roof leaks and other places where water can enter the wood.

You will then need to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with new wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for this task as it is more resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the rotted timber you can apply wood filler and hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To get the best results, adhere to the directions on the label.

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 such as Sikkens is an excellent option to accomplish this task.

You can also apply a two-part epoxy filler to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is essential to follow the instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler has dried, you can smooth the surface of the wood. It is best to begin with a rough piece of sandpaper and then move to a smoother one.

The most important thing you don't want to do is to 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 prime that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.

It won't open

A window that isn't opening can be caused by many reasons. Wood frames can warp during wet weather, the house could have settled or someone may have closed it to protect themselves. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated could be the main cause of windows that aren't opening. 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 will help prevent oxidation, and ensure that your windows are operating properly.

Stuck windows may be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These components may lose tension and become obstructed especially when the window is two or more stories higher than the ground.

If you are having trouble opening a window try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at one time. 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. You can also try running a hair dryer along 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 reason for windows that aren't able to raise or lower. You will need to consult the owner's manual for more details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you've 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 go from functional to unusable since a window that isn't properly shut could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us today for window repairs more information about our replacement windows and services!