20 Truths About Window Repair: Busted

Window Repairs

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

However, many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. Common issues include:

Broken or cracked panes

Glass that is cracked can be caused by a lawnmowers who throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually terrible, but it could also lead to more energy costs because broken glass lets cold air in to your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to employ a utility knife to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Next, use a soft paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of the glass and the 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 crack and causing further damage.

A bad crack in double-paned glass can compromise the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the quality of the glass or in the case of an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to call in a professional.

Thermal stress cracks can also happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens on two parts of a window, it's probably best to replace the glass instead of attempting to repair it.

Clear tape can be used to seal cracks in windows that aren't yet ready to be replaced. It also keeps out cold winds and window repairs bugs. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack, and then attach it using duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution, but it works well in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects away from your home. If your windows are old and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with your local window company about whether replacing the entire window would be a better solution for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most common problems with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a security risk. It is possible to repair rotted wood. First, you must address the cause of the wood's rot. Look for leaks on the roof and other areas where water could get into the wood.

You will then need to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be done with a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. Once the rotten areas have been removed then you must replace them with new wood. Pre-treated wood is recommended for this project since it will resist the onset of rot. If you are unable to replace the damaged timber you can apply wood hardener and filler to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product can be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is essential to safeguard the area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens, for example, is a great product to use.

You can also apply an epoxy filler that is two-part to shield the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is essential to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried you can sand the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough layer of sandpaper before moving to a smoother one.

You don't want to expose the damaged part to further moisture. So, it's recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. After that, you are able to reapply the wood sealant that is waterproof.

The W won't let you open

The reason a window won't open can be the result of a variety of reasons. The house could have settled, or the wood frames may have warped in rainy 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.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major window Repairs reason of the 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 into contact humidity and direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease will help prevent corrosion and keep your window working properly.

Stuck windows can be caused by an unintentional break or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These parts can lose tension and become obstructed when they are situated higher than two floors above the ground.

If you are having trouble opening a window repair try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open just a little at one time. Put a block in the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to damage either the wood or the window. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for a few minutes to warm the wood and allow it move more easily.

A damaged spring can be the cause of windows that aren't able to raise or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll be required to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving components on your windows, but they won’t open, then it's probably time to replace windows. Homespire Windows & Doors offers windows that are energy efficient. Don't let the windows of your home go from being functional to unusable. If your windows aren't properly closed could expose your home to burglary and water damages. Contact our team for more information on our replacement windows and services today!