Technology Is Making Door Doctor Better Or Worse

Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?

Window and door maintenance and repair benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs while also increasing comfort and security. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 epidemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without having to relocate.

Repair any loose or rotting casing as soon as you can. These are usually indications of moisture intrusion and can be fixed at a minimal cost.

Cracked or broken glass

You might be wondering whether you can repair your cracked or broken window glass or if you should replace it. The answer will depend on a lot of factors, such as the severity of the break and the cause, and what type of glass is used in your windows.

In most instances, it's easier to fix a damaged or cracked window than replace it. It is important to determine the cause of the crack and take action promptly to prevent it from continuing to get worse. This is especially important when it comes to impact breaks such as those caused by a lawnmowers or a ball for children.

Take out any pieces of the window that are still within its frame or on the floor. This is done while wearing high-quality work gloves and protective eyewear. Utilize a chisel or a knife to gently remove any glaze that holds the pieces together.

Once you have removed any shards of glass Clean the area and dispose of them in a safe manner. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces because they can be extremely sharp. It is also a good idea to cordon off the area, close the door, and instruct your family members not to go in until the broken glass has been cleaned up.

It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame as well as muntins or mullions that are used to support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust could cause damage to these parts which can cause further problems for the windows.

Replace the window if you are concerned about long-term damage. Tempered glass is more robust than regular glass, and it breaks into smaller granular pieces that are less likely than jagged shards to cause injuries.

If you're not confident in tackling the task on your own or you think it would be more economical to have your window replaced, call a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are experts at repairing and replacing windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other incidents. They can help you decide whether an immediate fix is better than a larger window replacement.

Damaged Frame

It's not surprising that the window frame is damaged. While some damage is cosmetic and can be repaired easily, others such as rotted frames are serious issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent more extensive repairs or replacement costs.

Wood rot on window frames can be ugly and lead to many problems such as mold and fungus. They can impact the health of your home and its value. To remedy this issue start by removing all weatherstripping, and then removing the wood that is decaying with a chisel or saw. After you have removed the damaged part of the frame, make use of an online kit or at a hardware store that includes all the tools and components you need to replace it.

Another common issue that must be addressed is cracks caused by moisture on the window frames. This is particularly important because 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 can be damaging to your house's structure, your possessions, and even your family's health.

Another issue that is common is difficulty opening or closing the window. This could be caused by a variety of reasons. The problem may simply be due to a buildup of dirt or dust that makes it harder for the sash to move, or the frame itself might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to properly open and close.

If you have any visible signs of damage to your window frame following a storm, then it's a good idea consult with an expert, because the damage could be severe enough that full window replacement would be the best or only option. Based on the policy of your insurance you may be able to file an insurance claim to pay for any repair or replacement costs.

Damaged Seals

Window seals provide the final layer of protection against moisture and air infiltration, which could damage windows. They also help maintain an ideal temperature inside and reduce energy bills. If you find that your window seals aren't working or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is essential to fix the issue before it worsens.

If your windows are single or double pane, the glass in them is held in place by an aluminum spacer inside and polyurethane, which sandwich the two panes of tempered or annealed glass. The constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sun can cause the glass to break down over time, allowing air and humidity to enter the panes. The window's insulation value will also be diminished if it contains inert gases. This is the main reason a window with broken seals will start to 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 may seem obvious however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaning agent will prolong their life and ensure they are in good condition.

A drafty feeling is one of the signs that your window doctor seal is failing, especially during an icy winter day. This is because the warm air inside your home is being pulled out through the window by the cold air outside. If you notice that suddenly your energy bills are higher than usual, it could be because your windows are letting in more cold air.

Moisture between the glass panes of your windows is another sign that your seals are not working. The moisture could be an elongated line of clear water or a perpetual cloud that blocks your view. The moisture between the glass is the result of an infiltration breach caused by the window seal breaking, and it can usually be fixed by sealing the inner aluminum spacer with polyurethane.

Muntins and Mullions Damaged

Muntins and Mullions, the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single pane windows, can be fake or real. If they're damaged, window repair experts are able to fix them. They will remove all glass, clean and scrape the area, then rebuild any muntins or mullias that are rotted or damaged. This is usually a cheaper solution than replacing an entire window.

Oft the more obscure issues are often overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from the force of rain or snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as apparent. For instance, a slit in the drip cap (the piece of metal that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture be introduced into the home, which can lead to rot, mould and insect infestation. A damaged sash cable may also cause draughts or rattles when windows are shut or opened.

A window that has a leak or that causes draughts may be costly to repair, especially if the water leaks into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks repaired immediately after they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges in old windows or by poorly designed windows that allow air in. Window and Door Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without having to replace the entire window.

If the casing surrounding your window is sagging, cracked, rotten or missing, it will have to be replaced. This is not necessarily an undertaking for the amateur because the wall could be in disrepair and requires a new build also. Loose casing is unattractive however, it allows moisture and air to enter the home which can reduce energy efficiency. Home centers typically sell primed wood exterior casings or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl products. They are more weatherproof than wood and will not require painting frequently to maintain their integrity. No matter the material used, all replacement casings should be treated with a high-quality exterior paint.