It’s The Window Repair Case Study You’ll Never Forget

Window Repairs

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

However, many other issues can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. Some common issues include:

Broken or cracked Panes

It’s a rock that’s been thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged windows are not just ugly, but it can also result in more expensive electricity bills because the broken pieces allow cold air to enter your home. It’s fairly simple to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass using gloves and safety glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to remove any remaining putty or glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to 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 crack that is severe in double-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the integrity of the glass or if you have an inner pane that’s totally missing, it might be time to call in an expert.

Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there’s a significant temperature difference inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens across two windows it’s recommended to simply replace the pane instead of trying to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a great job of preventing the crack from spreading and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can even cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp that’s sufficient to cover the crack, and fix it with duct tape. It’s not an indefinite solution, but it’s a good way to keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks appearing on the windows of your old ones, you should check with the local company to determine whether replacing the entire 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 danger. It is, however, possible to repair rotted wood. It is first necessary to address the cause of the wood’s rot. This can be accomplished by looking for roof leaks and gutters that aren’t functioning or cracked caulking, as well as other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

You will then need to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done with the use of a chisel, rasp or claw hammer. Once the rotten areas have been eliminated then you must replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project, as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the rotted timber you can apply wood hardener and filler to strengthen the damaged area. The majority of hardware stores have this type of product. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the best results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it’s crucial to protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. A product such as Sikkens is an excellent option for this job.

You can also use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a nice finish. However, it’s important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to an easier grade.

The most important thing you don’t want to do is to make the area that has been damaged by exposing it to more water. Therefore, it is a good idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer which will shield it from moisture. Then, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

It won’t open

There are many reasons windows don’t open. The house could have settled, or the wood frames may have warped in wet weather. Someone might have also secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can open the majority of stuck windows.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major cause of windows that aren’t opening. Dirt and grime build up on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window working properly.

Stuck windows could be caused by a loosening or breakage of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window. These parts can lose tension and become obstructed if they are located higher than two floors higher than the 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 the pry bar more leverage, and be sure not to harm the window or the 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 broken spring could be the cause of windows that don’t lift or lower. You’ll need to check the owner’s manual for additional details based on the manufacturer of your windows.

If you’ve tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then 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 your windows go from functional to inoperable since a window that isn’t properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact us for more information on our replacement windows and services today!