Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
A window pane that is broken, cracked or completely gone typically requires professional attention. It's difficult for DIYers not to make the situation worse by fixing cracked glass.
Start by identifying the issue. After that, gather your tools and work space and take the appropriate safety precautions. Preparing your window repair project in advance can save you money and reduce frustration.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or pebble thrown by the blade of a lawnmower or bird flying into a window can damage glass panes. Your windows may need professional repair or replacement based on the type of glass and the way it was put up. Window replacement is a large project that requires the removal of the sash (the part of the window that holds the panes) from the frame. You'll need a contractor with expertise in this procedure and the right window on hand or in stock before you begin work. A qualified contractor will remove the existing IGU (insulated glass unit) and install a brand new one in its place. reassemble the sash and replace the casing and caulk the joints to keep moisture out.
If you are replacing a single window pane, the initial step is to remove all glass shards from the area around the broken piece. It is also necessary to remove the glazing compound as well as the metal glazing points that were holding the old pane in place. Make sure you wear protective gloves and gloves when doing this; small glass chips could cause permanent eye injuries. A heat gun is a great tool for softening the old putty and allowing you to cut it off using a knife.
After taking off the old window pane, take measurements of the window's opening, then transfer them to the new. Make sure you subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height of the old frame to allow for expansion and contraction. You can use the traditional glazing putty or silicone caulk to seal the new pane.
Apply a bead caulk to the glass and frame to seal the joint. Allow the caulk to dry before placing the sash back to the frame and nailing it in place. Paint the frame to hide the nails and give it a polished, clean look. Contact a local glass manufacturer for an estimate if you require assistance in replacing your window panes. A skilled, certified professional is able to safely manage this project and ensure that your windows are protected against the elements.
Broken Seals
A window seal is made to create a barrier between your home's indoor air and the outside air which reduces energy transfer while making your indoor air warmer. The seals can be damaged over time due to issues such as humidity and fluctuating temperatures. If you notice a buildup or fogginess inside or outside of your windows this is a sign that your seals are failing.
A reputable window company can repair window seals with ease. A window repair service can usually complete this task in an hour or less. To repair a damaged window seal, your window repair professional will fog the windows, fill the void with Krypton gas or argon to insulate and then reseal the glass unit, but without allowing gas to escape.
When your windows are sealed again, they will offer the same insulation they did prior to becoming foggy. However, you will likely observe that your windows are a bit more difficult to open and close than they were previously. While this is a minor inconvenience, it may be an indicator that the sash of your windows requires repair or replacement.
It is worth contacting your manufacturer if you are still covered under warranty. You may be eligible for a no-cost IGU (insulated-glass unit) depending on the quality of your window.
If you are unsure whether to repair or replace your windows due to the fact that your window seals are damaged and are no longer working, you should replace them. This will stop the issue from arising again in the future, which will save you time and money on expensive repairs in the future in the long run. Replace your windows with double or triple pane windows to increase your home's insulation. Moreover, these newer windows are much more eco sustainable than single-pane windows of the past.
Rotting Wood
Wood that is rotting on the sill frame or mullions can not only be ugly however, it can also cause structural damage. Fortunately, it is possible to fix rotting wood and a skilled carpenter can do it quickly and efficiently. The most important task is to locate and fix the source of moisture.
This could need you to take a close look at the exterior of your house. Examine areas of wood that are near dirt or masonry, particularly those near windowsills and drip caps to ensure that there is no water getting in the way. Examine for signs of excess moisture, such as blistering or peeling paint, a darkened look and green algae growing on the surface of the wood. Examine floors, floor beams, joints and framing for signs of rot.
Dry Rot is a fungus that can attack wood from the inside. This condition can cause serious issues even though it's not as destructive or damaging as wet rot. It also can contaminate and weaken other materials that come in contact with the affected wood including mortar, concrete and plaster.
Dry Rot can be treated with epoxy resins, making the wood stronger and more durable. The product comes in two forms: penetrants and fillers. The penetrants are a strong adhesive putty with no shrinkage that can be used to reinforce and rebuild rotted or severely damaged wood and other materials used in structures like walls, floors, furniture, sculptures columns, and more. It hardens into a durable, solid substance that is not affected by insects or water.
Fillers are adhesive pastes with high strength that don't shrink. They can be used to fill holes or gaps. They are easy to use, however precision is essential. It is recommended that the area be cleaned prior to application to remove any splinters or slender fragments of decayed wood, and it is recommended to prime the area before applying the epoxy to ensure that it adheres properly.
In some cases there are instances where a large portion of decayed wood is so severe that it may be necessary to replace the window. A professional can assess the situation and give you a recommendation.
Refusal to open
A window that won't open can be a frustrating issue. It's not only inconvenient but it can also be dangerous if one needs to escape an unburned building or simply needs to breathe fresh air. Fortunately, most windows that are difficult to open can be fixed with certain troubleshooting steps.
If your single-hung or double hung windows aren't closing or opening the first thing you need to look for is dirt and grime. Over time, dust and dirt will accumulate within the window frame and cause friction, which could cause a problem in moving the sash. This issue can be resolved by cleaning the windows and spraying a lubricant on them.
Another reason that can cause sticking windows is moisture. Wood will absorb moisture over time, and cause it to expand. upvc windows repairs near me can cause cracks, rotting, and warping. Damage from moisture can cause paint to peel, which could cause the frame's alignment to shift. This could cause the window channels to no long line up with the windows making it difficult to fully open or close the window.
If lubricating hinges and reinstalling the stripped screw doesn't fix the issue, you might need to contact a professional for window repairs. This is a more difficult procedure that requires the removal of the window sash. This is typically only recommended for people who are comfortable working with power tools. If the window is broken and needs to be replaced completely. Depending on the condition and the type of window, you might need to replace all windows in your home. A professional can assist you in deciding which option is best for your home.