The Window Repair Awards: The Best, Worst, And The Most Bizarre Things We've Seen

Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes warm. Window replacement is often required in the event of severe damage such as broken glass, or a window frame that has been smashed.

But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the life of your windows. Some common problems include:

Broken or cracked Panes

Cracked window glass could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or a tree branch being blown by strong winds. This not only looks bad, but it can result in higher energy bills as the broken pieces let cold air in to your home. Fortunately, it's generally simple to repair windows with cracked panes.

Begin by carefully removing the glass using gloves and sunglasses. You may have to make use of a utility knife in order to loosen any remaining putty or old glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Then, clean the glass's surface and the wood of the frame using a soft cloth or paper towel.

Once the area is clean and dry, apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the perimeter of the frame. This will stop water from getting into the frame through the crack and result in further damage.

A bad crack in double-paned glass could affect the gas between the panes, which can make your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it might be time to contact a professional.

Cracks in the glass caused by thermal stress may occur when there is a drastic difference in temperature inside and outside your home. The glass is then able to expand and contract. If this happens to two parts of a window, it's probably best to replace the glass instead of trying to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not yet ready to be replaced clear tape can do a decent job of preventing the crack from spreading and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can also cut a nylon stocking large enough to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. This isn't an indefinite fix, but it will keep insects and cold air away from your home. If you notice cracks on the windows of your old ones, you should check with your local company to see if replacing the whole window is a better option.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent problem with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and create a safety danger. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. The first step is to make sure that the source of the rot has been dealt with. This can be done by looking for leaks in the roof or gutters that are not functioning, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

You will then need to take off the rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using a claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. After removing the decayed wood, you'll have to replace it with new wood. It is recommended to make use of pre-treated wood for this project as it will be resistant to rot. If you are not able to replace the damaged timber, you can use filler and wood hardener to strengthen the damaged area. This kind of product can be found in a lot of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, adhere to the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it's crucial to protect the area. You can do this by applying a water-resistant wood sealant. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to use.

Use a two-part epoxy to safeguard the wood from further damage. This product is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is important to follow the instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper then move to an easier grade.

The final thing you would like to do is make the area that is rotting even more by expose it to more water. It is therefore a good idea to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer which will protect it from moisture. After that, you can reapply the wood sealant, which is waterproof.

The website won't work

The reason a window won't open could be due to many factors. The house might have shifted or the wooden frames may have warped in humid weather. Somebody may have secured them with a nail for security. With a bit of patience and the right tools you can open the majority of stuck windows.

Gunk or debris that has accumulated could be the main cause of a window not opening. Acme Glass notes that dirt and grime build up over time on hinges, sliding tracks and locks. Additionally, hardware made of metal is prone to be rusty when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas to aid in preventing oxidation and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.

Stuck windows can be the result of the breaking or loosening of the pulleys used to raise and lower the window. These components may lose tension and become obstructed particularly if the window is located two or more stories above the ground.

If you're having difficulty opening windows try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open a bit at a time. Place a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to harm the wood or the upvc window repairs. Try applying a hairdryer along the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood, making it easier to move.

Another issue for windows that aren't opening is a broken spring that prevents the window jamb from rising or lowering. You'll need to check your owner's guide for more information depending on who made your windows.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace them with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slide from functional to useless because windows that aren't properly shut could make your home vulnerable to burglary and water damage. Contact our team today for more information on our replacement windows and our services!