Window Repairs

Window upvc repairs can save homeowners money and help keep their homes comfortable. In the event of severe damages such as broken glass or a shattered frame, a replacement window may be necessary.

But there are many other issues that can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Broken or cracked panes

It's a rock that's been thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch blown by high winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electric bills since the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows that have broken panes.

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

Once the area is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from entering the frame through the cracks and causing further damage.

A serious crack in double-paned glass can compromise the gas between the panes, rendering your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to call in a professional.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there is a drastic difference in temperature between your home and the outside. The glass is then able to expand and shrink. If this happens to two parts of a window it's recommended to replace the glass rather than trying to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut the length of a nylon stocking to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it can be useful in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects from entering your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your windows that are older You should consult your local company to see if replacing the whole window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical problem with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a safety risk. However, it is possible to repair wood that has rot. The first step is to make sure that the root of the rot has been addressed. This can be accomplished by looking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.

You'll then have to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. After removing the decayed wood, you'll need to replace it with new wood. It is recommended that you use pre-treated wood for this project since it will be resistant to rot. If you are unable to replace the timber that has rotted then you can use wood hardener and filler to reinforce the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

After you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is essential to protect the newly-repaired area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. A product like Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task.

Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood against further damage. It is simple to apply and provides an excellent finish. However, it is very important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can smooth the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough piece of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade.

The last thing you want to do is to make the area that has been damaged by exposing it to more water. It is therefore an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. After that, you are able to apply the wood sealant that is waterproof.

Won't Open

There are many reasons why a window won't open. Wood frames can warp when exposed to humid weather, the house might have sunk or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.

One of the main causes of a window that isn't able to open 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 can also rust when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window functioning correctly.

The pulleys used to raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These parts can be weakened and obstructed if they are located higher than two floors higher than the ground.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the window doctor (he has a good point). Place a wood block on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage and be careful not to scratch the window or the wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it to move more easily.

A broken spring could be the reason for windows that aren't able to lift or lower. You'll need to check the owner's manual for additional details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they still won't open It could be time to replace windows with energy-efficient, window doctor new windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to unusable, as a window that isn't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us for more information about our windows replacement and services today!