Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
A window that is damaged, cracked, or completely missing is usually in need of professional attention. Glass that is cracked is difficult to DIYers to fix without aggravating the situation.
Begin by identifying the issue. After that, gather your tools and prepare your work area and take the required safety precautions. You can save money and avoid stress by planning your window repair ahead of time.
Broken Panes
A baseball that is thrown in error or a pebble thrown by a lawnmower or a bird flying into the glass pane could break it. The windows you have may require professional repair or replacement depending on the type of glass and how it was put up. Window replacement is a large project that requires the removal of the sash (the part of the window that houses the panes) from the frame. You'll need a contractor with expertise in this process and the appropriate window on hand or in stock before you begin work. A qualified contractor will remove and replace the current IGU. They will also put back together the window sash, and replace the casing.
If you are replacing a single window pane, the initial step is to eliminate all shards of glass from the area around the broken piece. You will also need to take off the glazing compound and metal glazing points that held the old pane in place. Wear protective gloves and gloves when doing this; small glass chips could cause permanent eye damage. Heat guns can be used to soften the old glue so you can scrape it off using an utility knife.
After removing the old piece of glass take a measurement of the opening and transfer the measurements to the new window. Make sure to subtract 1/8 inch (or quarter inches) from the width and height of the frame to account for expansion and contraction. You can use the traditional glazing putty or silicone caulk to seal the new pane.
Apply a bead of caulk between the frame and glass to seal the joint. 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 neat, finished look. Contact a local glass company to get an estimate if you require assistance with replacing windows. A trained, certified professional is able to safely manage this project and ensure that your windows are safe from the elements.
upvc window repair Seals
A window seal is made to create an enclosure between your home's indoor air and the outside air, reducing energy transfer and making your indoor air warmer. However, these seals may get damaged over time due to issues like fluctuating temperatures and humidity. If you notice a buildup of fogginess on the inside or outside of your windows this could be a sign that your seals are failing.
A reputable window repair service can repair window seals with ease. In reality, a window repair service can typically complete the job in an hour or so. To repair a damaged window seal, the window repair service will fog the windows, fill the void with insulating argon or Krypton gas and then reseal the glass unit without allowing gas to escape.
After your windows are resealed they will continue to provide the same insulation they did prior to becoming foggy. However, you will likely observe that your windows are slightly more difficult to open and close than they used to be. This may seem like an inconvenience, but it could indicate that your window sash needs to be replaced or repaired.
If your windows are still under warranty, it is always advisable to contact the manufacturer to see whether they can offer the possibility of a replacement. Based on the quality of your windows, you may be able to obtain a new IGU (insulated glass unit) for free to you.
If the seals on your windows are failing and you're pondering whether to replace or repair your windows, the best choice is usually to replace them. This will prevent the problem from happening again in the future and will save you money in the long run for expensive repairs. In addition, replacing your existing windows with triple or double pane windows can dramatically increase the efficiency of insulation in your home. These windows are also much more eco-friendly when compared to single-paned windows of the past.
Rotting Wood
The rotted wood in the frame, sill or the mullions of a window is not only unsightly but can cause structural damage. Fortunately, it's possible to repair wood that is rotting and a skilled carpenter can complete the task quickly and effectively. The most crucial step is to pinpoint and correct the source of moisture.
This may require a careful inspection of the exterior of your home. Look for wood that has been in contact with dirt, masonry or drip caps. Look for signs of excessive moisture, such as peeling or blistering paint, a darkened look and green algae that is growing on the surface of the wood. Examine floor beams, joints, and framing for signs of rot.
Dry Rot is a fungus that can attack wood from the inside. Although this isn't as destructive as wet rot, it could nevertheless cause serious issues. It also can contaminate and weaken other materials that come in contact with the affected wood like mortar, cement and concrete.
Dry Rot can be treated using epoxy resins, which make the wood stronger and more durable. The product comes 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 severely damaged wood and other materials in structures, walls, floors, furniture, sculptures columns, and other structures. It is a hard, solid substance that is unaffected by insects or water.
The fillers, which are high-strength adhesive paste, that is not shrinkable can be used to fill gaps or holes. They are simple to use, however precision is vital. It is crucial to clean the area before applying the epoxy to get rid of any splinters and tiny pieces of decayed wood. The area should be primed after application to ensure that the epoxy adheres properly.
In certain situations there are instances where a large portion of wood that is rotten is so severe that it's required to replace the window. A professional can evaluate the situation and give you advice.
Refusal to Open
A window that isn't opening can be a frustrating problem. It's not only inconvenient but it can also be dangerous if you need to escape an unburned building or simply need to get some fresh air. Fortunately, the majority of windows that are difficult to open can be fixed by taking some troubleshooting steps.
If your single or double hung windows aren't opening or closing the first thing you need to check is dirt and grime. Over time dust and dirt can build up in 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.
Moisture is another common cause of windows that stick. As time passes, wood begins to absorb moisture and then expand. This can lead to cracks or warping, as well as rotting. Moisture can also damage paint, which can cause the frame to shift out of alignment. This could cause the window sash channels to no longer line up with the window, making it difficult to completely open or close the window.
If lubricating the hinges and replacing broken screws does not solve the issue, it could be time to call in experts to repair your window. This can be a more complicated process, and may require 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, it may be necessary to replace it entirely. Depending on the condition and the type of window you may need to replace all the windows in your home. A professional can assist you in deciding which option is best for your home.