Guide To Window Repair: The Intermediate Guide Towards Window Repair

Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. In the event of major damage, such as broken glass or a damaged frame, a window replacement could be required.

But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. Common issues include:

Cracked or broken panes

If it's an unintentional rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree's branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only unattractive but can lead to more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's typically easy to repair windows that have cracked panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's edges. This will stop water from leaking into the frame through the crack and result in further damage.

If you have double-pane glass a bad crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass or in the case of an inner pane completely missing, it's time to contact an expert.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens across two parts of a window it's best to replace the window instead of attempting to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not yet ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp sufficient to cover the crack and stick it to the wall using duct tape. This isn't a permanent 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 starting to notice cracks in the glass, it's recommended to consult 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 frequent problem with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and can also be danger to your safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you need to make sure that the root of the rot has been addressed. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places where water can enter the wood.

The next step is to take out the rotten components of the window repair frame. This can be accomplished with an axe, a claw hammer or a rasp. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with new wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for this project since it is more resistant to rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber, you can use wood hardener and filler to repair the damaged area. This type of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to achieve the most effective results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window Repair sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task.

It is also possible to use a two-part epoxy filler to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and gives a good finish. However, it is very important that you follow the directions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to an easier grade.

The last thing you want to do is make the area that is rotting even more by expose it to more water. So, it's recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

The reason a window won't open could be due to a variety of factors. The house could have settled or the wooden frames may have warped in humid weather. Somebody may have secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open the majority of stuck windows.

One of the main reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.

Stuck windows may be caused by the breaking or loosening of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the window. These components may lose tension and get blocked, especially if the window is located two or more stories higher than the ground.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently push the window open. 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 allow it to move more easily.

A broken spring could be the reason for windows that don't lift or lower. You'll need to check the owner's manual for more information depending on who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they won’t open, then it's probably time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides windows that are energy efficient. Don't let your windows slip from functional to useless since windows that aren't properly closed can leave your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact us today for more information about our replacement windows and services!