Window Repair - Common Problems That Require Professional Attention
A window that is broken, cracked or completely missing is usually in need of professional attention. It can be difficult for DIYers not to cause more damage by repairing damaged glass.
Start by identifying the issue. Gather upvc window repair and work space, prepare it, and take all necessary safety precautions. Making preparations for the window repair in advance will help you save money and lessen frustration.
Broken Panes
An errant baseball or pebble thrown by a lawnmower blade or bird flying into windows could damage glass panes. Depending on the kind of glass and how it was put in, your windows may require professional repair or replacement. Window replacement is a significant project that requires removing the sash, the part of the window that holds the panes, from the frame. You will need a contractor who knows how to handle the task and have the proper window in stock prior to starting work. A qualified contractor will remove and replace the current IGU. They will also reassemble the window sash and replace the casing.
If you are replacing a single window pane, the initial step is to eliminate the glass shards completely from the area around the broken piece. Also, you will need to remove the glazing compound and metal glazing points that were holding the old pane in place. Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses while doing this. Small glass chips can cause permanent eye damage. Heat guns can be used to soften the old putty so you can scrape it away with an utility knife.
After removing the window pane, take measurements of the window's opening and transfer them to the new one. Make sure to subtract 1/8 inch (or quarter inches) from the width and the height of the frame in order to take into account expansion and contraction. Seal the new pane using either silicone caulk or traditional glazing putty.
Apply a bead caulk to the frame and glass to seal the joint. Let the caulk dry before you insert the sash into the frame. Apply an application of paint to the frame to cover the nails and give the window a neat looking, polished appearance. Contact a local glass business to request a quote if you need help replacing window panes. A skilled, certified professional can safely complete this project and ensure that your windows are safe from the elements.
Broken Seals
A window seal creates an air barrier that keeps your home's air warm and helps reduce energy transfer. However, these seals may become damaged as time passes due to issues such as fluctuating temperatures and humidity. If you notice a buildup of fogginess inside or outside of your windows, this could be a sign that your seals are failing.
Fortunately, window seals can be repaired relative ease by a professional window company. A window repair service will typically complete this task in an hour or less. To fix a broken window seal, your window repair professional will fog the windows, fill in the gap with insulating argon or Krypton gas and then seal the glass unit around it without allowing gas to escape.
After your windows have been resealed and sealed, they will offer the same insulating benefit that they had before they became foggy. You'll be able to see that your windows are more difficult to open or close than before. It may seem like a minor inconvenience but it could indicate that your window sash needs to be repaired or replaced.
It is worth contacting your manufacturer if you're still covered under warranty. You could be eligible for a no-cost 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 fix your windows, the most effective option is usually to replace them. This will stop this issue from occurring again in the future and save you money in the long run for expensive repairs. Replace your windows with double or triple pane windows to improve your insulation in your home. Additionally, the newer windows are much more eco friendly than older single-pane windows.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot in the frame, sill or the mullions of old windows is not only unsightly but also can cause structural damage. It is, however, possible to fix rotting wood, and a professional carpenter can do it quickly and efficiently. The most important step is to locate and fix the source of moisture.
This may require a careful examination of the exterior of your house. Examine the wood for signs that it is in contact with masonry, dirt or drip caps. Look for signs of excessive moisture, including peeling or blistering paint, a darkened appearance and green algae growing on the surface of the wood. Also, ensure that you inspect the floor beams and framing joints to determine if the timber has begun to decay.
Dry Rot is a fungus that can attack wood from the inside. While this condition isn't as destructive as wet rot, it could nevertheless cause serious issues. It can also contaminate and weaken other materials that come in contact with the wood affected including mortar, cement and concrete.
Fortunately, Dry Rot can be treated with an epoxy resin that can make the affected wood strong and more durable than initially. The product is available in two forms: penetrants or fillers. The penetrants is a high-strength adhesive putty that has no shrinkage that can be used to reinforce and rebuilding rotted wood or other materials within structures. It is a hard solid material that is not affected by insects or water.
The fillers, which are high-strength adhesive paste, that is not shrinkable, can be used to fill in gaps or holes. They are simple to use, however precision is crucial. It is important to scrape the area clean prior to applying the epoxy to eliminate any splinters or small fragments of decayed wooden. The area should be primed after application to ensure that it adheres well.
In some cases there are instances where a large portion of wood that is rotten is so bad that it may be required to replace the window. A professional can assess the situation and offer advice.
Refusal to open
A window that won't open can be a frustrating problem. It's not only inconvenient but can be dangerous when one needs to escape the flames of a building or need 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 at is grime and dirt. Over time, dust and dirt will accumulate within the window frame, causing friction that can make it difficult to move the sash. Cleaning the windows and spraying them with lubricant will often fix this issue.
Moisture is another cause of windows that stick. Over time, wood will absorb moisture and then expand. This can lead to cracks or warping, as well as rotting. Damage from moisture can cause paint to peel, which could cause the frame's alignment to shift. This could cause the window channels to not line up with the window, making it impossible to completely open or close the window.
If lubricating hinges, and replacing the broken screws doesn't solve the issue, you might require the help of a professional for window repair. This is a more complicated procedure that requires the removal of window sash. This is generally only recommended for those who are comfortable working with power tools. If the window is damaged, it could be necessary to replace it completely. Based on the kind of window and the extent of the damage, it might be necessary to replace all the windows in your home. A professional can help you determine what option is best for your home.