Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
A window that is broken, cracked or completely missing typically requires professional attention. Glass that is cracked is difficult for DIYers to fix without creating a worse situation.
Begin by identifying the issue. Set up your tools and work space, prepare it and take all the necessary safety precautions. Preparing your window repair project in advance can help you save money and lessen frustration.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown in error, a pebble thrown from a lawnmower or a bird flying over glass can damage it. Depending on the type of glass and the way it was put in your windows may require professional repair or replacement. Window replacement is a huge 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 with expertise in this process and the appropriate window in stock prior to starting work. A licensed contractor will take out and replace the old IGU. They will also put back together the window sash, and replace the casing.
If you are replacing a single window pane, the first step is to clear all shards of glass from the area around the broken piece. Also, you will need to remove the glazing compound as well as the metal glazing points that were used to hold the old pane. Wear protective gloves and gloves while doing this. Even small chips of glass can cause permanent eye damage. The use of heat guns is to soften the old putty to the point you can scrape it off using an utility knife.
After removing upvc window repairs of glass take a measurement of the opening and transfer the measurements to the new window. Make sure you subtract 1/8 inch (or one quarter inch) from the width and the height of the frame in order to account for expansion and contraction. You can use traditional glazing putty or silicone caulk to seal the new pane.
Place the new pane into the window and then apply a bead of caulk to seal the gap between the frame and the glass. Allow the caulk to set before putting the sash in the frame. Apply the paint on the frame to cover the nails and give the window a clean and polished appearance. Contact a local glass manufacturer to get an estimate if you require assistance in replacing your window panes. A trained, certified professional can safely handle the project and ensure your windows are safe from the elements.
Broken Seals
Window seals are designed to create an enclosure 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 by problems like humidity or fluctuating temperatures. One of the most common signs that your window seals are damaged is a buildup of fog or condensation that is not able to be removed from the inside or outside of your windows.
A reputable window company can repair window seals with a lot of ease. In fact, a window repair service will typically complete the job in about an hour. To fix a broken seal, the window contractor will fog your windows, fill the gap with insulative argon or Krypton gas and seal the glass unit, but not allowing any gas to escape.
Once your windows are sealed and sealed, they will offer the same insulation benefits they did prior to becoming foggy. However, you will likely observe that your windows are slightly more difficult to open and close than they were previously. This may seem like an inconvenience, but it could be a sign that your window's sash is in need to be repaired or replaced.
If your windows are still under warranty, it is always advisable to contact the manufacturer to inquire about a replacement. You may be eligible for a free IGU (insulated-glass unit) in accordance with the quality of your window.
If you are unsure whether to replace or repair your windows due to the fact that your window seals have failed and are no longer working, you should replace them. This will stop this issue from occurring again in the future and save you money in the long-term on expensive repairs. In addition, replacing your existing windows with double or triple pane windows can significantly improve the efficiency of insulation in your home. These windows are also much more eco-friendly than single pane windows that were previously used.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot in the frame, sill or the mullions of a window is not just ugly, but it can also cause structural damage. Fortunately, it's possible to repair rotting wood and a skilled carpenter can complete the task quickly and efficiently. The most important thing to do is to locate and eliminate the cause of moisture.
This could require you to carefully inspect the exterior of your house. Look for areas of wood that are in contact with dirt or masonry, specifically those located near drip caps and windowsills, to be sure that there is no water collecting there. Be on the lookout for signs of excess moisture like peeling or blistering paint, a darkened appearance and algae that is growing on the top of the wood. Examine the floor beams, joints and framing for signs of rot.
A fungus called Dry Rot can attack wood and eat it up from the inside out. Although this isn't as destructive as wet rot, it could still cause serious problems. It can also cause a lot of harm and weaken other materials that come in contact with the wood affected like mortar, cement and concrete.
Thankfully, Dry Rot is treatable with an epoxy resin that can make the wood affected stronger and more durable than it was initially. The product comes in two forms: penetrants and fillers. The penetrants is a strong adhesive putty that has no shrinkage that can be used for strengthening and rebuilding rotted wood or other materials within structures. It sets into a durable solid material that is unaffected by water or insects.
Fillers are high-strength adhesive pastes that do not shrink. They can be used to fill holes or gaps. They are easy to use, however precision is vital. It is advised that the area be scraped clean prior to application to remove any splinters or thin pieces of decayed wood. it is recommended to prime the area after applying the epoxy to ensure that it adheres properly.
In certain cases, an entire area of rotten wood so severe that the window might require replacement. A professional can evaluate the situation and offer advice.
Refusal to Open
A window that won't open is a frustrating issue. It's not just a nuisance however, it could also be dangerous if someone is trying to escape a burning building or simply wants to get some fresh air. Fortunately, most windows that are difficult to open can be fixed by following certain troubleshooting steps.
If your single or double hung windows aren't opening or closing first thing to look for is dirt and grime. Over time, dirt and dust will build up inside the window frame, leading to friction that makes it difficult to move the sash. Cleaning the windows and spraying them with lubricant will often fix this problem.
Moisture is another reason for windows that become stuck. Wood absorbs moisture over time, and cause it to expand. This can cause cracks, rotting and warping. The moisture can also cause damage to paint, which will cause the frame to move out of alignment. This can cause the window channels to not align with the windows, making it difficult to completely open or close the window.
If lubricating the hinges and replacing stripped screws doesn't solve the problem, it may be time to call in experts for window repair. This is a more difficult procedure that requires the removal of the window sash. This is generally only recommended for those who are accustomed to working with power tools. If the window is damaged and needs to be replaced entirely. Depending on the type of window and extent of the damage, it might be required to replace all the windows in your home. A professional can assist you in deciding which option is the best one for your home.