Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
If a window pane is damaged, cracked, or is missing completely, it usually requires professional attention. It's difficult for DIYers not to make the situation worse by fixing cracked glass.
Begin by identifying the issue. Gather your tools and work space and take the required safety precautions. You can save money and prevent frustration by preparing your window repair project ahead of time.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or pebble thrown by the blade of a lawnmower or bird flying into windows can break glass panes. Based on the type of glass and the way it was installed your windows may require repair or replacement by a professional. Window replacement is a huge project that requires the removal of the sash (the part of the window that houses the panes) from the frame. You'll require a professional with knowledge of the process and the correct window on hand or in stock before you begin work. A qualified contractor will remove the old IGU (insulated glass unit) and install a new one in its place. rebuild the sash and replace the casing and seal the joints to keep moisture out.
If you are replacing a single window pane, the first step is to remove the glass shards completely from the area around the broken piece. You will also need to remove the glazing compound and metal glazing points that kept the old pane in place. Be sure to wear gloves and safety goggles when doing this; small glass chips could cause permanent eye injuries. A heating gun can be useful in softening the old putty which allows you to scrape it away using a utility knife.
After removing the old pane of glass Measure the opening, then transfer the measurements to the new window. Make sure you subtract 1/8 inch from the width and height of the old frame to allow for expansion and contraction. upvc window repairs can use the traditional glazing putty or silicone caulk to seal the new window.
Apply a bead caulk to the frame and glass to seal the joint. Let the caulk dry before placing the sash back into the frame and nailing it into place. Paint the frame to conceal the nails and give it a polished and clean appearance. Contact a local glass company to request an estimate if you need assistance in replacing your window panes. A trained, certified professional can safely complete this project and ensure that your windows are shielded from the elements.
Broken Seals
A window seal is made to create an air barrier between your home's air inside and the outside air to reduce energy transfer and keeping your indoor air warmer. The seals may be damaged over time by issues such as humidity and fluctuating temperatures. The most obvious sign that the seals on your windows have failed is the appearance of fog or condensation that isn't able to be eliminated either from the outside or inside of your windows.
A professional window company can repair window seals with relative ease. A window repair service will typically complete the task in a half hour or less. To repair a damaged window seal, your window contractor will fog the windows, fill the void with an insulating gas like Krypton or argon and then reseal the glass unit, but without allowing gas to escape.
After your windows have been resealed and sealed, they will offer the same insulation benefit they did before becoming foggy. You'll notice that your windows are more difficult to open and close than they were before. While this may be a minor issue, it could be a sign that the sash of your windows also requires repair or replacement.
If your windows are still under warranty, it is always worth contacting the manufacturer to inquire whether they can offer a replacement. Based on the quality of your windows, you might be able to get a new IGU (insulated glass unit) for free to you.
If the seals on your windows are failing and you're thinking whether you should replace or repair your windows, the best option is to replace them. This will stop the problem from happening again in the future, saving you time and money on expensive repairs in the future run. Additionally upgrading your windows with double or triple pane windows can dramatically increase the insulation efficiency of your home. The newer windows are significantly more sustainable when compared to single-paned windows of the past.
Rotting Wood
Wood decaying on the sill, frames or mullions will not only be unsightly but also cause structural damage. Fortunately, it is possible to repair rotting wood and a skilled carpenter can do it quickly and effectively. The most important thing is to locate and correct the source of moisture.
This may require a careful inspection of the exterior of your home. Examine the wood for signs that it is in contact with dirt, masonry or drip caps. Look for signs of excessive moisture, like 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. This can cause serious issues, even though it is not as destructive or as damaging as wet rot. It can also contaminate and weaken other materials that come into contact with the wood affected like plaster, mortar and concrete.
Thankfully, Dry Rot is treatable with an epoxy resin that can make the affected wood strong and more durable than originally. The product comes in two forms: penetrants and fillers. The penetrants are a high-strength adhesive putty with no shrinkage that can be used to reinforce and rebuild rotted or severely damaged wood and other materials in structures such as floors, walls sculptures, furniture columns, and other structures. It is a hard solid material that is unaffected by insects or water.
The fillers, which are a high-strength adhesive paste that is non-shrink and non-shrink, can be used to fill gaps or holes. They are easy to use, however precision is vital. It is essential 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 it adheres well.
In some cases there is a lot of decayed to the point that the window might require replacement. A professional can assess the situation and provide you with the appropriate advice.
Refusal to open
A window that isn't opening is a frustrating issue. It's not just a nuisance, but it can be dangerous if one is trying to escape a burning building, or simply wants some fresh air. Most windows that are difficult or impossible to open can be repaired by following a few troubleshooting techniques.
If your single-hung or double hung windows aren't opening or closing, the first thing to look for is grime and dirt. Over time dust and dirt will build up within the window frame and cause friction, which can make it hard to move the sash. This problem can be fixed by cleaning the windows and spraying a lubricant on them.
Moisture is another cause of windows that stick. Wood absorbs moisture over time, which causes it to expand. This can lead to cracks or warping, as well as rotting. Moisture damage can cause paint to peel, which could cause the frame's alignment to be shifted. This can cause window channels to no long line up with the windows which makes it difficult to fully open or close the window.
If lubricating hinges, and replacing the screws that are stripped do not solve the problem, you may require the help of a professional to repair your window. This is a more complicated process that requires removing the window sash. This is usually only recommended for those who are comfortable working with power tools. If the window is damaged, it may be required to replace it completely. Based on the extent of damage and the type of window you may need to replace all the windows in your house. A professional can help determine the best option for your home.