Window Repairs Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. In the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a shattered frame, window replacement may be required. But there are many other issues that can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are: Cracked or broken Panes Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. It's not just visually bad, but it can result in higher energy bills because the broken pieces let cold air into your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with broken panes. Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and glasses. You may have to employ a utility knife to break loose any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the wood of the frame with a soft cloth or paper towel. After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is water-proof around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from entering the frame through the cracks and cause further damage. If you have double-pane glass a bad crack could compromise the gas layer that lies between the panes and render 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 might be time to contact an expert. Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a window it is recommended to replace it rather than try to repair it. For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a decent job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the 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 it keeps cold air and insects out of your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your windows that are older, you should check with your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is a better option. Rotten Wood Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can damage a home's appearance and pose a safety danger. It is possible to fix damaged wood. You will first need to determine the root of the wood rot. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water could get into the wood. The next step is to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using a claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After the rotten areas have been eliminated, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended that you use pre-treated wood for this project as it is more resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the wood that has been damaged then you can use filler or wood hardener to repair the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores have this type of product. To get the best results, follow the instructions on the label. After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. Sikkens, for example is a fantastic product to use. Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, window repairs is important that you follow the application instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler dries, you can sand down the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to an easier grade. The last thing you want to do is make the area that is rotting even more by exposed to more water. So, it's a good idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply waterproof wood sealant. The W won't open There are a variety of reasons windows don't open. The house could have settled, or the wood frames might have warped due to rainy weather. There is also the possibility that someone secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows. One of the main causes of windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. Grime and dirt build up on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, says Acme Glass. In addition, metal hardware can rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is functioning well. Stuck windows may be the result of an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These parts can be weakened and obstructed when they are placed two or more floors above the surface. If you're having difficulty opening a window, try using a pry bar to gently push the window open a little at a time. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and allow it move more easily. Another common issue for windows that aren't opening is a broken spring that stops the window jamb from rising or lowering. Depending on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll need to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions. If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they're still not opening, it might be time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to useless. If your windows aren't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us to learn more about our windows replacement and services today!
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