Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and help keep their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a broken window frame.

However, many other issues can be repaired to extend the lifespan of your windows. Common problems include:

Cracked or broken Panes

Glass that is cracked could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws rocks in the wrong direction or branches of trees being blown by strong winds. This is not only visually bad, but it can cause higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air into your house. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to repair windows that have cracked panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or double glazing repairs Dartford glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is water-proof to the frame's perimeter. This will stop water from getting into the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

A bad crack in double glazing repair Coulsdon glazing repairs Dartford (www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk)-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less insulative. If the crack is severe enough to compromise the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it might be time to contact an expert.

Thermal stress cracks may also occur when there is a drastic difference in temperature both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a window it is best to replace it instead of try to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not yet 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 cut a nylon stocking large enough to cover the entire crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't a long-term solution, but it works well in the event of a crisis and keeps cold air and insects out of your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass, it's an excellent idea to talk with the local window company to determine if replacing the entire window could be the best option for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent issue with windows. It can ruin the appearance of a house and also pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. The first step is to make sure that the source of the rot has been addressed. This can be done by looking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

You'll then have to remove the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using either a chisel, a rasp or claw hammer. After the areas that are rotten have been cleared, you will need to replace them with fresh wood. It is recommended to make use of pre-treated wood for this project since it is more resistant to rot. If you are unable replace the wood that has been damaged then you can use wood hardener or filler to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the instructions on the label.

After you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it's essential to protect the newly-repaired area. You can do this by applying an water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens, for example, is a great product to apply.

Use a two-part epoxy in order to protect the wood against further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it's important that you follow the application instructions on the label. After the epoxy filler is dry, you can smooth the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move to more smoother grades.

The final thing you would like to do is make the rotted area even worse by expose it to more water. It is a good idea that's why you should cover the surface repaired with an oil-based prime that will protect it from water. After that, you can apply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

A window that isn't opening could be due to various reasons. The house could have settled, or the wood frames may have warped in humid weather. Somebody may have put them in place to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major cause of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. In addition, metal hardware is prone to get rusty when in contact with humidity or direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can prevent corrosion and keep your window repairs Coulsdon functioning properly.

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

If you're having difficulty opening the window try using a pry bar to gently push the window open a little at a time. Place a block of wood on the frame to give the pry bar more leverage and be careful not to damage the window or wood. Try using a hairdryer to dry the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.

Another common issue with windows that won't open is a faulty spring that keeps the window jamb from lowering or rising. Based on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll need to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows go from functional to unusable, as windows that aren't properly shut can expose your home to burglary and water damage. Contact us for more information on our windows replacement and services today!