10 Things We Hate About Window Repair
Window Repairs Window repairs can help homeowners save money while maintaining their comfort. In the event of major damages such as broken glass or a cracked frame, window replacement may be required. Many other problems can be fixed to extend the life of windows. Some common problems include: Cracked or broken Panes If it's an unintentional rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch blown by high winds, damaged window glass isn't just visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly simple to repair windows with damaged panes. Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to use an utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, wipe down the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel. Once the frame is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the perimeter of the frame. This helps prevent water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to the frame and the glass. 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 that it threatens the integrity of the window or if the inner pane is missing you might need to consult a professional. Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's a drastic difference in temperature both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If the cracks are located on two sides of a glass, it is best to replace it instead of try to repair it. Clear tape can be used to close cracks in windows that are not yet ready for replacement. It also keeps out bugs and cold wind. You can even cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack, and glue it in place with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it's a great solution in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on your windows that are older it is recommended to contact your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is a better solution. Rotten Wood Wood rot is among the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and pose a safety risk. However, it is possible to repair wood that has rot. It is first necessary to determine the root of the wood decay. This can be done by checking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood. Next, you will need to get rid of any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be accomplished with the claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After the rotten areas have been removed, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project since it is resistant to the onset of rot. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber, you can use filler and wood hardener to repair the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To get the best results, follow the directions on the label. Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it is important to protect the repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant on the wood. Sikkens, for example is a great one to use. It is also possible to use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a nice finish. However, it is very important that you follow the directions for application on the label. When the epoxy filler is dry you can sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to a smoother grade. You don't want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. 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. After that, you are able to apply the waterproof wood sealant. Won't Open A window that isn't opening can be the result of a variety of factors. The house may have settled, or the wood frames could have warped during rainy weather. Somebody may have nailed them shut for security. With window repair Chelmsford of patience and the right tools, you can open the majority of stuck windows. Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major reason of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. Metal hardware may also rust if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will help to prevent oxidation and help keep your windows operating well. Stuck windows could be caused by an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys that are used to lift and lower the window. The components may lose tension and cause obstruction if they are located at least two floors above the ground. If you're having difficulty opening a window Try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open a bit at a time. Place a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. You can also try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily. Another common issue with windows that don't open is a defective spring that keeps the window jamb from lowering or rising. You will need to consult the owner's manual for additional details based on the manufacturer of 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 of your home go from functional to unusable. If your windows aren't properly shut can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact our team for more information on our windows replacement services and products today!