Window Repairs

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

However, many other issues can be addressed to extend the life of your windows. The most frequent issues are:

Cracked or Broken Panes

If it's an unintentional rock thrown by your lawnmower or a tree branch that has been blown by high winds, damaged window glass is not only visually unappealing, but also can result in higher electric bills since the broken pieces let cold air to enter your home. It's fairly simple to repair windows that have broken panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety glasses. You may need to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or old double glazing Hornchurch 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.

Once the area is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking around the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from entering the frame through the cracks and causing further damage.

If you have double Glazing repairs Walsall-paned glass, cracks that are severe could damage the gas layer between the panes and make your windows less insulative. If the crack is significant enough to threaten the integrity of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it might be time to contact an expert.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there's a significant temperature difference inside and outside your home. This causes the glass to expand and shrink. If the cracks are situated on two sides of a window repairs Hornchurch, it is best to replace it rather than attempt to repair it.

For windows that have cracked but aren't yet ready to be replaced Clear tape can do a great job of securing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to cover the entire crack and glue it with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it's a great solution in a pinch and it keeps insects and cold air out of your home. If you notice cracks appearing on your older windows it is recommended to contact the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a typical problem for windows. It can damage a home's appearance and create a safety hazard. However, it is possible to repair rotted wood. First, you will need to make sure that the source of the rot has been addressed. This can be accomplished by examining for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning cracking caulking, and any other areas that allow water to get into the wood.

You will then need to take out the rotten components of the window frame. This can be accomplished with the claw hammer, chisel, or rasp. After removing the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with fresh wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project since it will resist decay. If you are unable to replace the damaged timber then you can use wood hardener and filler to reinforce the damaged area. Many hardware stores will carry this type of product. To get the best results, adhere to the instructions on the label.

Once you have replaced the decayed areas of the windowsill, it is essential to protect the newly-repaired area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. Sikkens, for example, is a great product to apply.

You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to protect the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and double glazing Repairs Walsall gives a good finish. However, it is important to follow the directions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried it is possible to sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper, and then move on to more smoother grades.

You don't want to expose your damaged area to more moisture. It is therefore recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply waterproof wood sealant.

Won't Open

The reason a window won't open can be the result of many factors. Wood frames can warp during wet weather, the house might have sunk or someone could have nailed it shut to protect themselves. But with some patience and the right tools, many windows that are locked can be opened.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated can be a major reason of the window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on the sliding tracks, hinges and locks. Metal hardware can also rust when it comes into contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Making sure these areas are lubricated with spray grease will help prevent corrosion and keep your window functioning well.

The pulleys used to raise or lower the window may be loosened, or break. These parts can lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed two or more floors above the ground.

If you have trouble opening a door, try using a pry-bar to gently open the window. Place a wood block on the frame to give your pry bar more leverage and be careful not to damage the window or the wood. Alternatively, try running a hair dryer around the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and allow it move more easily.

A faulty spring can also be the reason for windows that aren't able to raise or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of the windows, you'll be required to refer to the manual of your owner for additional instructions.

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