Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and help keep their homes warm. Window replacement may be necessary in the event of severe damage like broken glass or a broken window frame.

But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Cracked or broken panes

Whether it's an errant rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. Fortunately, it's generally easy to repair windows that have damaged panes.

Start by carefully removing glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may need use a utility knife to loosen old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Then, use a gentle paper towel or cloth to clean the surface of both the glass and wood of the frame.

Once the frame is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking to the perimeter of the frame. This will prevent water from entering the frame through the crack and cause further damage.

If you have Double glazing repair Solihull-paned glass, a bad crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it's time to call in an expert.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's a significant temperature difference both inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If this happens across two parts of a window it's recommended to replace the window instead of attempting to repair it.

For cracked windows that aren't yet 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 an area of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and fix it with duct tape. This isn't an indefinite fix, but it will keep insects out and cold air away from your home. If your windows are older and you're beginning to notice cracks in the glass It's a good idea to check with the local window company to determine if replacing the entire window could be the best alternative for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a common issue with windows. It can degrade a house's appearance and create a safety risk. It is possible to fix rotted wood. It is first necessary to identify the cause of the wood's rot. This can be accomplished 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.

Next, double glazing repair Solihull you will need to take out any rotten parts of the window repair Wellingborough frame. This can be done with a rasp, chisel or claw hammer. Once the rotten areas have been cleared it is time to replace them with new wood. It is recommended to choose treated wood for this task as it is more resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the rotted wood then you can use wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the directions on the label.

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

Use a two-part epoxy in order to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a nice finish. It is crucial to follow the directions on the label. After the epoxy filler has dried, you are able to sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to a smoother grade.

The most important thing you don't want to do is to make the area that is rotting even more by exposed to more water. It is a good idea, therefore, to protect the surface you have repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the wood sealant that is waterproof.

It won't open

There are many reasons windows won't open. Wood frames can warp in wet weather, the house might have sunk or someone may have closed it for security reasons. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, many windows that are stuck can be opened.

The accumulation of gunk or debris can be a major cause of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on hinges, sliding tracks, and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal may be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease can help to prevent corrosion and keep your window working well.

Stuck windows may be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys used to lift and lower the window. These components can be weakened and obstructed if they are located at least two floors above surface.

If you are having trouble opening windows try using a pry bar to gently force the window open a little at each time. 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. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and help it move more easily.

Another common problem with windows that don't open is a faulty spring that stops the window jamb from rising or lowering. You will need to consult the owner's manual for more details depending on the person who made your windows.

If you have tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them, but they still won't open It could be time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to useless, as a window that isn't properly shut could leave your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact us today for more information on our replacement windows and our services!