"The Window Repair Awards: The Best Worst And Weirdest Things We ve Ever Seen
Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and make their homes warm. In the event of major damages, repair window like broken glass or a cracked frame, a window replacement could be necessary.
Other issues are fixable to extend the life of windows. Common issues include:
Cracked or broken Panes
If it's an unintentional rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electricity bills as the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. Luckily, it's typically easy to fix windows with cracked panes.
Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to employ a utility knife to remove any remaining putty or old glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, use a gentle cloth or paper towel to clean the surface of the glass and the frame's wood.
After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof around the frame's perimeter. This will prevent water from entering the frame through the crack and cause further damage.
If you have double-pane glass cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer that lies between the panes and render your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is so severe that it is threatening the structural integrity of the upvc window repair, or if the inner pane is missing you might need to contact a professional.
Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there is a significant temperature difference between your home and the outside. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If the cracks are located 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 yet ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good job of securing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can cut a nylon stocking large enough to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it can be useful in the event of a crisis and keeps insects and cold air from entering your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with your local window manufacturer to determine if replacing the entire window would be a better option for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a typical issue with windows. It can damage a home's appearance and create a safety danger. It is possible to Repair Window damaged wood. First, you must identify the cause of the wood rot. Look for leaks on the roof and other places where water can enter the wood.
You'll then have to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be accomplished with an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. Once the rotten areas have been eliminated then you must replace them with new wood. It is recommended that you make use of pre-treated wood for this project as it is more resistant to decay. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber then you can use filler and wood hardener to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. To get the best results, make sure you follow the directions on the label.
After you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. This can be done by applying a waterproof wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is a great choice to accomplish this task.
It is also possible to use an epoxy filler with two parts 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 down the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper then move on to an easier grade.
You do not want to expose the damaged area to more moisture. It is a good idea therefore, to cover the repaired surface with an oil-based primer that will protect it from water. Then, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.
The W won't let you open
There are many reasons why a window won't open. The house could have settled, or the wood frames may have warped in wet weather. Someone might have also put them in place to protect themselves. With a little patience and the right tools you can unlock most stuck windows.
Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major cause of a window not opening. The buildup of dirt and grime on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, notes Acme Glass. Metal hardware can also rust if it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Keeping these areas lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent oxidation and keep your window functioning correctly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window could become loose, or break. These components may lose tension and get blocked particularly when the window is situated two or more stories higher than the ground.
If you are having trouble opening windows try using a pry bar to gently force the window open a little at a time. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage and be careful not to scratch the window or the wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.
A faulty spring can also be the reason for windows that aren't able to raise or lower. Depending on who manufactured the windows, you'll have to consult the owner's manual for additional instructions.
If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving components on your windows, but they still won’t open, then it's time to replace them. Homespire Windows & Doors offers energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let windows in your home go from being functional to useless. If your windows aren't properly shut could leave your home vulnerable for burglary and water damages. Contact our team for more information on our windows replacement services and products today!