Window Repairs

Window upvc repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes warm. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage like broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.

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

Cracked or broken panes

Cracked windows could be caused by a lawnmowers who throws errant rocks or by the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually bad, but it can also lead to higher energy bills because the broken pieces let cold air into your home. Fortunately, it's generally easy to repair windows that have damaged panes.

Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. You may need to use a utility knife to remove any remaining putty or glazing compound that has accumulated around the edges of the frame. Next, repaired wipe down the surface of the glass and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

After cleaning the area, apply a silicone caulking that is waterproof 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 crack that is severe in double-paned glass can affect the gas between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the quality of the glass or if you have an inner pane that's totally missing, it's time to call in a professional.

Thermal stress cracks can also occur when there's an extreme difference in temperature between the outside and inside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens to two portions of a window it's best to simply replace the pane instead of attempting to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a good job of preventing the crack from spreading and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp that's sufficient to cover the crack and fix it with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever, but it works well in a pinch and it 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 your local window company to determine if replacing the entire window might be the best option for you.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is one of the most frequent issues with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and create a security risk. It is possible to repair the wood that has rotted. First, you will need to make sure that the root of the rot has been taken care of. Examine for leaks in the roof and other places that water may get into the wood.

You will then need to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be done with an axe, a claw hammer or a rasp. After the rotten areas have been cleared then you must replace them with new wood. It is recommended that you make use of pre-treated wood for this project since it is resistant to rot. If you cannot replace the damaged timber you can apply wood filler and hardener to repair the damaged area. This type of product will be found in a lot of hardware stores. Follow the instructions on the label of the product to get the most effective results.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's essential to safeguard the area. You can do this by applying a waterproof wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a great one to use.

Use a two-part epoxy to protect the wood from further damage. It is simple to apply and provides a good finish. However, it is very important to follow the application instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the surface of the wooden. Start with a rough sandpaper, then move on to a smoother grade.

The final thing you want to do is to make the rotted area even worse 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 which will shield it from moisture. After that, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

The W won't let you open

There are a variety of reasons windows won't open. Wood frames can warp during rainy weather, or the house could have settled or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. But with some patience and the right tools, all windows that are stuck can be opened.

One of the most frequent causes of windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime builds up over time on sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Additionally, metal hardware is prone to rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas to aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.

Stuck windows could be caused by the breaking or loosening of the pulleys that are used to lift and lower the window. These components can lose their tension and get blocked especially if the window is located 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 to open just a little at a time. Place a block of wood on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage. Also, be careful not to scratch the window or the wood. You can also try running a hair dryer along the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily.

A damaged spring can be the reason for windows that don't raise or lower. Depending on who manufactured your windows, you will have to consult the manual of your owner for additional instructions.

If you've tried cleaning and lubricating the moving parts on your windows, but they still aren't opening, it's time to replace the windows. Homespire Windows & Doors provides energy-efficient replacement windows. Don't let the windows in your home go from functional to inoperable. A window that isn’t properly closed could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damages. Contact our team for more information about our windows replacement and services today!