Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
If a window pane is cracked, broken or missing completely it will require professional attention. It is difficult for DIYers to not cause more damage by fixing cracked glass.
Start by identifying the issue. Set up your tools and prepare the area for work, and take all necessary safety precautions. Preparing for the window repair project in advance can save you money and reduce frustration.
Broken Panes
A baseball that is thrown in error, a pebble thrown from a lawnmower or a bird flying through a glass pane can break it. Depending on the kind of glass and the way it was put up your windows may require professional repair or replacement. Window replacement is a major project that requires the removal of the sash (the part of the window which holds the panes) from the frame. You'll need a contractor who has knowledge of the process and the correct window in stock prior to starting work. A licensed contractor will remove the existing IGU (insulated glass unit) and replace it with a new one in its place. They will rebuild the sash and replace the casing and caulk the joints to keep moisture out.
If you are replacing just one window pane, the initial step is to clear the glass shards completely from the area around the broken piece. You will also have remove the glazing compound, as well as the metal glazing points that held the old pane. Wear gloves and safety goggles when doing this; small glass chips can cause permanent eye damage. The use of heat guns is to soften the old putty so you can scrape it off with a utility blade.
After removing the old piece of glass take a measurement of the opening and transfer the measurements to the new window. Make sure you subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height of the frame that was previously used to allow for expansion and contraction. Seal the new pane using either silicone caulk or the traditional glazing putty.
Place the new pane into the window and then apply caulk in a thin layer to seal the gap between the frame and the glass. Allow the caulk to set before you put the sash into the frame. Apply an application of paint to the frame to cover the nails and give the window a clean, finished appearance. If you need assistance with to replace a window pane or glass, contact a local glass business to request a quote. A certified, skilled professional can safely complete this project and ensure that your windows are protected against the elements.
Broken Seals
A window seal is designed to create a barrier between your home's air inside and the outside air which reduces energy transfer while keeping your indoor air warmer. The seals can be damaged over time due issues such as humidity and fluctuating temperatures. One of the most common signs that your window seals are damaged is a buildup of condensation or fogginess that isn't able to be eliminated from the inside or outside of your windows.
Fortunately, window seals can be repaired relatively little effort by an experienced window company. In fact an expert window repair service can typically complete this task within about an hour. To fix a broken window seal, your window contractor will clear the windows, fill the void with insulating argon or Krypton gas, and reseal the glass unit without allowing gas to escape.
After your windows are resealed they will continue to offer the same insulation they did prior to becoming foggy. However, you may observe that your windows are slightly more difficult to open and close than they were before. While this may be a minor inconvenience, it may be an indicator that the window's sash requires repair or replacement.
If your windows are still under warranty, it's always worth contacting the manufacturer to see the possibility of the possibility of a replacement. You may be eligible for a free IGU (insulated-glass unit) dependent on the quality of the window.
If the seals on your windows are failing and you're considering whether to replace or repair your windows, the best option is usually to replace them. This will stop the issue from occurring again in the future, saving you time and money on expensive repairs in the long term. Replace your existing windows with triple or double pane windows to boost your insulation in your home. These newer windows are also significantly more sustainable compared to older single-paned windows.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot on the sill, frame, or mullions may not only be unsightly but also cause structural damage. upvc window repairs is adept at quickly and effectively repair wooden frames that are rotting. The most important step is to locate and eliminate the cause of moisture.
This may require you to inspect the exterior of your home. Check for wood that is in contact with masonry, dirt or drip caps. Examine for signs of excess moisture, including blistering or peeling paint, a darker appearance and green algae that is growing on the surface of the wood. Also, make sure to inspect the floor beams and framing joints to see if the wood has begun to decay.
A fungus called Dry Rot can attack wood and eat it up from the inside out. While this condition isn't as destructive as wet rot, it can still cause serious issues. It also can contaminate and weaken other materials that come in contact with the affected wood, such as mortar, cement and concrete.
Thankfully, Dry Rot can be treated with an epoxy resin that can make the affected wood robust and more durable than initially. The product is available in two forms: penetrants and fillers. The penetrants are a strong adhesive putty that is no-shrink that can be used to reinforce and repair rotten or damaged wood and other materials used in structures such as floors, walls, furniture, sculptures, columns and more. It sets into a durable solid substance that is unaffected by water or insects.
The fillers, which are high-strength adhesive paste that is non-shrink and non-shrink can be used to fill in gaps or holes. The fillers are easy to apply, however, cleanliness and neatness are crucial. It is crucial to scrape the area clean prior to applying the epoxy in order to remove any splinters and tiny pieces of decayed wood. Prime the area after application to ensure that the epoxy adheres properly.
In some instances, a large area of wood that is rotten is so severe that it is required to replace the window. A professional can assess the situation and provide suggestions.
Refusal to open
A window that won't open is a frustrating issue. It's not just annoying, but it can also be dangerous if someone needs to escape from an unburned building or simply need to get some fresh air. Most windows that are difficult or impossible to open can be repaired by following a few troubleshooting suggestions.
If your single hung or double-hung windows aren't closing or opening first thing to check is grime and dirt. Over time dust and dirt will build up in the window frame and cause friction, which could make it hard to move the sash. Cleaning the windows and spraying them with lubricant will often fix this issue.
Another common cause of sticking windows is moisture. As time passes, wood will absorb moisture and expand. This can cause cracks or warping, as well as rotting. Moisture can also damage paint, causing the frame to move out of alignment. This can cause the window channels to not line up with the window, making it impossible to fully open or close the window.
If lubricating the hinges and replacing broken screws does not solve the issue, it could be time to contact experts for window repair. This is a more complicated procedure that requires the removal of window sash. This is only recommended for people who are comfortable with power tools. If the window is damaged, it might be necessary to replace it entirely. Based on the type of window and the extent of the damage, it may be necessary to replace all the windows in your home. A professional can help you determine the best option for your home.