"The Window Repair Awards: The Most Worst And Strangest Things We ve Ever Seen
Window Repairs
Window repairs to upvc windows can help homeowners save money and help keep their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of serious damage like broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.
However, many other issues can be repaired to extend the lifespan of your windows. Some common issues include:
Cracked or broken panes
Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or a tree branch being blown by strong winds. This is not only visually awful, but it could result in more energy costs because the broken pieces allow cold air into your house. Fortunately, it's generally easy to repair windows that have broken panes.
Begin by carefully removing the glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may have to use an utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, use a gentle cloth or paper towel to clean the glass's surface and the frame's wood.
After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's edges. This will stop water from entering through the crack, which can cause further damage to the frame and the glass.
If you have double-paned glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer that lies between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to compromise the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane completely missing, it might be time to call in a professional.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If the cracks are located on two sides of a window repair near it is recommended to replace it rather than try to repair it.
For cracked windows that aren't quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of stabilizing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut the length of a nylon stocking to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. It's not a permanent fix, but it will keep insects out and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows, you should check with your local company to see whether replacing the entire window is a better solution.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a typical problem with windows. It can alter the appearance of a house and also pose an hazard to safety. It is possible to repair rotted wood. First, you will need to ensure that the root of the rot has been taken care of. This can be accomplished by looking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.
The next step is to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be accomplished with an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. After the areas that are rotten have been cleared then you must replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended to use pre-treated wood for this task as it is resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the wood damaged by rot then you can use filler or wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to ensure the best results.
Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. Sikkens, for example, repair windows is a great product to apply.
You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to shield the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and gives a good finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can rub the surface of the wood. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to more smoother grades.
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. So, it's a good idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. After that, you are able to reapply the waterproof wood sealant.
The Won't open
There are many reasons windows don't open. The house could have settled, or the wood frames might have warped due to humid weather. Somebody may have nailed them shut for security. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, all windows that are stuck can be opened.
Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major reason of windows that aren't opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime accumulates over time on hinges, sliding tracks and locks. In addition, metal hardware may rust when it comes into contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will help prevent oxidation, and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.
The pulleys that raise or lower the window could be loosened, or break. These parts can lose tension and become obstructed when they are situated higher than two floors above surface.
If you're having difficulty opening a window try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open just a little at each time. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to damage the window or the wood. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for a few minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.
A broken spring could be the reason for windows that aren't able to lift or lower. You'll need to refer to your owner's guide for more details based on the manufacturer of your windows.
If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts of your windows, but they still cannot open, it's probably time to replace them. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to useless. A window that isn’t properly closed could make your home vulnerable to water damage and burglary. Contact us to learn more about our windows replacement and services today!