The Ultimate Glossary For Terms Related To Window Repair

Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. upvc window repairs near me replacement is often required in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a window repair frame that has been smashed.

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

Broken or cracked Panes

Cracked upvc window repair glass could be caused by a lawnmower that throws rocks at the wrong time or the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. It's not just visually terrible, but it could result in higher energy bills as broken glass lets cold air into your house. It's relatively easy to repair windows with broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass using gloves and glasses. You may need to use an utility knife to break loose the old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the frame's wood with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the frame is clean, apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from entering through the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

If you have double glazed window repairs-pane glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane completely missing, it might be time to contact a professional.

Thermal stress cracks can also happen when there's a dramatic difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens to two parts of a window, it's probably best to simply replace the pane rather than trying to repair it.

For cracked windows that aren't quite ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good job of securing the crack and preventing the entry of bugs and cold air. You can even cut an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it's a great solution in a pinch and keeps cold air and insects from entering your home. If you notice cracks or blemishes on the windows of your old ones it is recommended to contact your local business to determine whether replacing the entire window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent problems that plague windows. It can ruin the appearance of a home and can also be danger to your safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you will need to make sure that the cause of the rot has been dealt with. This can be accomplished by looking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to enter the wood.

The next step is to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using the claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After removing the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it 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 wood damaged by rot, you can try using wood hardener or filler to help strengthen the damaged area. Most hardware stores will carry this type of product. To achieve the best results, follow the instructions on the label.

Once you have repaired the rotten areas of the windowsill, it's important to protect the repaired area. This can be done by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. A product such as Sikkens is a good choice to accomplish this task.

Use a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy-to-apply and leaves a nice finish. However, it is very important that you follow the directions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can rub the surface of the wood. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade.

The last thing you want to do is to make the rotted area even worse by exposing it to more water. Therefore, it is an ideal idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will help protect it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

A window that won't open can be the result of a variety of factors. The house could have settled or the wooden frames could have warped during rainy weather. Someone might have also nailed them shut for security. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.

One of the main causes of windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on sliding tracks, hinges, and locks. In addition, metal hardware is prone to get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Maintaining these areas lubricated by spray grease can help to prevent corrosion and keep your window operating properly.

Stuck windows could be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys that are used to raise and lower the window. These components can lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed two or more floors higher than the surface.

If you are having difficulty opening a door, you can use a pry-bar to gently open the window. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the window. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and allow it move more easily.

A damaged spring can be the reason for windows that aren't able to lift or lower. Depending on who manufactured the windows, you'll need to refer to your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they're still not opening 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. A window that isn’t properly shut could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us today to learn more about our replacement windows as well as our services!