Window Repairs

Window repairs can help homeowners save money and keep their homes warm. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of serious damage like broken glass or a broken window frame.

Many other problems can be fixed to extend the life of windows. Common problems include:

Cracked or broken panes

Cracked window repair glass could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually awful, but it could also lead to higher energy bills because the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively simple to repair windows with cracked panes.

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

After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the cracks and cause further damage.

If you have double-paned glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane completely missing, it's the time to call an expert.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperature between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are on two sides of a window, it is recommended to replace it instead of try to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a good job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can also cut the length of a nylon stocking to completely cover the crack and glue it with duct tape. It's not a permanent solution, but it can keep cold air out and insects away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your older windows it is recommended to contact your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and can also be an hazard to safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you need to make sure that the root of the rot has been dealt with. Check for roof leaks and other areas where water can enter the wood.

The next step is to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be accomplished with the use of a chisel, rasp or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been removed it is time to replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project, as it will resist decay. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber then you can use wood filler and hardener to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to achieve the most effective results.

After you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a great choice to accomplish this task.

You can also use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and provides a good finish. However, it's important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can rub the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move to more smoother grades.

You don't want to expose your damaged part to further moisture. It is a good idea, so, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

The website won't work

There are many reasons a window won't open. The house may have settled or the wooden frames might have warped due to rainy weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, many windows that are locked can be opened.

The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major reason of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes in 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 properly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window Repair can become loose, or break. These parts can lose tension and become obstructed when they are placed two or more floors above ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, use a pry-bar to gently open the door. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to scratch the window or wood. Try running a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.

A damaged spring can be the reason for windows that don't lift or lower. You will need to consult the owner's manual for more information depending on who made your windows.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open, it might be time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to useless because windows that aren't properly shut could expose your home to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today to learn more about our replacement windows as well as our services!