Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and keep their homes comfortable. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a shattered window frame.

But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. Common issues include:

Cracked or Broken Panes

Cracked windows could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. It's not just visually awful, but it could cause more energy costs because broken glass lets cold air into your house. Fortunately, it's generally simple to repair windows with broken panes.

Start by carefully removing glass using gloves and sunglasses. 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. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the frame's wood using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the frame is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the frame's perimeter. This prevents water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.

A serious crack in double-paned glass may cause gas to leak between the panes, rendering your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or in the case of an inner pane that's totally missing, it's the time to call an expert.

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

If your windows are cracked and not 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 an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and stick it to the wall using duct tape. This isn't an end-to-end solution, but it can keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your older windows You should consult your local business to determine if replacing the whole window is the best option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and pose a safety hazard. It is possible to fix damaged wood. The first step is to make sure that the cause of the rot has been taken care of. This can be accomplished by checking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.

Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done with a claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After you have removed the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with fresh wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for Back this project as it is more resistant to decay. If you are unable replace the wood that has been damaged, you can try using wood hardener or filler to repair window the damaged area. This type of product will be available at most hardware stores. Follow the directions on the label of the product to ensure the most efficient results.

After you have replaced the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option to accomplish this task.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a nice finish. However, it is important that you adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can rub the surface of the wood. It is best to begin with a rough layer of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade.

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

Won't Open

The reason a window won't open could be due to many reasons. The house may have settled, or the wood frames may have warped in humid weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, many windows that are locked can be opened.

One of the most frequent causes of windows that isn't able to open is the accumulation of debris or gunk on its moving parts. The buildup of dirt and grime on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. Additionally, metal hardware may get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can prevent the oxidation process and ensure that your window is functioning correctly.

Stuck windows can be the result of a loosening or breakage of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the window. These components can lose tension and cause obstruction if they are located two or more floors above ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently push the window open. Place a block of wood on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage and be sure not to harm the window or wood. Try running a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

A faulty spring can also be the cause of a window that won't raise or lower. You will need to consult the owner's manual for additional details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still aren't opening, it's time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let your windows slip from functional to unusable since a window that isn't properly closed can expose your home to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today to learn more about our replacement windows and our services!