Are You Getting The Most Of Your Door Doctor
Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance benefit homeowners by reducing their energy bills, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 epidemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without the need to relocate.
Exterior casings that are loose or rotting must be repaired as quickly as is possible. They are usually a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired with minimal cost.
Cracked or Broken Glass
You may be wondering if you can repair the crack or broken window glass or whether you should replace it. The answer depends on many factors, including the severity of the crack and the type of glass doctor you have in your window.
The majority of the time, a cracked or broken window can be fixed instead of replacing it. It is important to determine what caused the crack, and act quickly so that it doesn't become worse. This is particularly crucial with fractures from impact, such as a rock from the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the kids.
Remove any window pieces that are still in its frame or on the floor. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work, and wear protective eyewear. Utilize a chisel or a knife to gently remove any glaze that is holding the pieces in position.
After you have removed the glass shards, clean up the area carefully and dispose of them in a proper way. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces as they are extremely sharp. You can also create a cordon around an area, close the door and instruct your family members to not go into the room until the broken glass pieces have been cleaned.
It's also recommended to inspect the condition of the frame as well as muntins and mullions that help support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust could cause damage to these parts and cause problems for windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, consider replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is stronger than ordinary glass and shatters into tiny granular pieces that are less likely to cause injury than jagged pieces of glass.
If you're not confident in tackling the job yourself, or if it will be more cost-effective to replace your window, contact a professional window and door doctor to assist with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are skilled in repairing and replacing windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other accidents. They can assist you in deciding whether an immediate fix is better than a full replacement.
Damaged Frame
The window frame is subject to lots of wear and tear, so it's not a surprise that it's damaged from time to time. Some damages are cosmetic and can be easily repaired, while others such as damaged frames may be more severe and should be addressed quickly to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
The wood rot that is a part of the windows frames isn't just unattractive, but it can also lead to many issues including fungus, mold, and pests that will impact your home's value and health. To remedy this issue start by removing all weatherstripping, and then removing the decayed wood by using a chisel or a saw. After you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, make use of a kit sold online or in a hardware store that comes with all the tools and components you need to repair it.
Moisture-related cracks in window framing are another common issue that must be addressed immediately. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which could cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture into your home. This could be detrimental to your house's structure or your belongings, and even your family's health.
Another common issue is having difficulty opening or closing the window. This can be caused by several different factors. The problem may simply be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt that makes it difficult for the sash to move or the frame could have suffered some type of structural damage that has affected its ability to open and close properly.
If your window frame shows obvious signs of damage following a storm it is recommended to consult an expert. The damage may be so severe that a total replacement of the window is the only or best option. Depending on your insurance policy you might be able to file a claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration that could damage windows. They also help maintain an ideal temperature inside and help reduce energy costs. If you find that your window seals are failing or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it's essential to fix the issue before it gets worse.
The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they are double-paned or single-paned, is held together by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. As time passes, the constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sun can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to seep between the panes. The window's insulation value is also diminished if it contains inert gases. This is the reason why windows with damaged seals will fog.
The best option to take if you suspect that the window seals on your home are failing is to follow the manufacturer's instructions. It might seem like a simple task, but it's something that many homeowners skip over. Cleaning your windows regularly with whatever cleaning agent is suggested will prolong the lifespan of your windows and keep them functioning optimally.
The signs that the window seal is not working are a feeling of draftiness particularly on a cold winter day. The cold air outside is dragging warm air out of your window. If you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than usual without any explanation, your windows may let in too much cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are breaking down is if you notice moisture in the glass of your windows. This moisture can be thin lines of clear water or a long-lasting haze that interferes with your view. The moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration breach that occurs when the window seal is damaged. This can be repaired by resealing using polyurethane to seal the inner aluminum spacer.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
The strips of wood used to separate the panes of single-pane glass can be real or fake. If they are damaged, window repair experts will usually fix them. They will remove all glass clean and scrape the area before re-building any mullias or muntins which are damaged or rotted. This is often a cheaper option than replacing the entire window.
While the damage to your window's frame from heavy rain, snow melt or humidity may be obvious, the less obvious problems are often overlooked. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that is placed on top of the frame) can allow moisture into the home. This can lead to mould and rot. A sash cord that is damaged can also lead to draughts and rattles when the window is open or closed.
A window that has a leak or that causes draughts may be costly to repair particularly in the event that the water leaks through walls. The leaks must be fixed as soon as is possible. Draughts are usually caused by faulty hinges on old windows, or because of poorly designed windows that let air in. Window & upvc door doctor glazing doctor is able to fix leaks and draughts, without the need to replace the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is loosened or cracked, rotting, or missing entirely the casing will need to be replaced. This isn't necessarily an undertaking for the amateur because the wall could be in disrepair and need to be rebuilt too. It's not just unappealing but also allows moisture and air to enter the home. This decreases the efficiency of the home. Most home centers sell primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl products. These are more weatherproof than wood, and will not need to be painted regularly to maintain the integrity. No matter the material, all replacement casing should be treated with an exterior-grade paint.