An Window Repair Success Story You'll Never Be Able To
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Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and keep their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of severe damage such as broken glass, or a window frame that has been smashed.
But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:
Broken or cracked Panes
Cracked window glass can be caused by a lawnmower that throws errant rocks or by a tree branch being blown by strong winds. It's not just visually bad, but it can also lead to higher energy bills because the broken pieces let cold air into your house. It's fairly easy to fix windows with damaged panes.
Begin by carefully removing glass using gloves and glasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of the glass and wood of the frame.
Once the frame is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
A bad crack in double-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough that it compromises the strength of the window or if the inner pane is missing you might need to contact an expert.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures 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 recommended to replace the glass instead of trying to repair it.
Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that aren't yet ready for replacement. It can also keep out bugs and cold wind. You can even cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. It's not an end-to-end fix, but it will keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your older windows, you should check with the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is the best option.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a common problem for windows. It can affect the appearance of a home and it can also pose a safety risk. It is possible to fix rotted wood. You will first need to address the cause of the wood's rot. This can be done by looking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.
The next step is to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been cleared then you must replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project, as it will resist rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber you can apply wood hardener and filler to reinforce the damaged area. Many hardware stores will have this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to achieve the most efficient results.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is essential to safeguard the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this task.
Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. However, it is very important that you follow the directions for application on the label. After the epoxy filler dries, you can sand down the surface of the wooden. It is best to start with a rough piece of sandpaper, and then progress to more info a smoother one.
You do not want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. It is recommended, therefore, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based prime that will protect it from water. Then, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.
The Won't open
A window that isn't opening can be caused by a variety of factors. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames may have warped in humid weather. There is also the possibility that someone secured them with a nail for security. With a little patience and the right tools you can open most stuck windows.
One of the main causes of a window that isn't opening is the accumulation of gunk or debris on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can help to prevent corrosion and keep your window functioning correctly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These components may lose tension and get blocked particularly if the window is located at least two stories above the ground.
If you have difficulty opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the window. Place a block on 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 along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it to move more easily.
Another issue for windows that aren't opening is a broken spring that keeps the window jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to refer to the owner's manual for additional details depending on the person who made your windows.
If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to inoperable. If a window isn't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us today for more information about our replacement windows as well as our services!