A TimeTravelling Journey A Conversation With People About Window Repair 20 Years Ago

Window Repairs
Window repairs can help homeowners save money and maintain their comfort. Window replacement is often required in the event of serious damage, such as broken glass or a window frame that has been smashed.
But many other issues can be fixed to prolong the lifespan of your windows. Some common problems include:
Cracked or broken Panes
If it's an unintentional rock being tossed by your lawnmowers, or a tree's branch blown by high winds, cracked window glass isn't just unattractive but can lead to higher electricity bills as the broken pieces allow cold air into your home. It's fairly easy to fix windows that have broken panes.
Start by carefully removing glass with gloves and safety sunglasses. window repairs may need use a utility knife to remove old glazing compound or putty around the frame's edges. Next, use a soft paper towel or cloth to wipe the glass's surface and wood of the frame.
After cleaning the area, apply silicone caulking that is waterproof to the frame's edges. This helps prevent water from getting into the crack, which can cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.
A serious crack in double-paned glass may cause gas to leak between the panes, making your windows less efficient in insulating. If the crack is severe enough to cause damage to the integrity of the glass, or the glass has an inner pane that's completely missing, it's time to contact an expert.
Cracks caused by thermal stress can occur when there's a significant difference in temperatures between the outside and inside of your home, which causes the glass to expand or contract. If this happens to two portions of a window it's best to simply replace the pane instead of attempting to repair it.
If your windows are cracked and not yet ready to be replaced, clear tape can do a good job of stabilizing the crack and preventing bugs from entering cold air. You can even cut a piece of nylon stocking or tarp large enough to cover the crack and glue it in place with duct tape. This isn't a permanent solution however it can be useful in the event of a crisis and keeps insects and cold air away from your home. If your windows are old and you're beginning to see cracks in the glass, it's recommended to consult with your local window company to determine if replacing the entire window might be a better alternative for you.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a common issue with windows. It can affect the appearance of a home and can also be danger to your safety. It is, however, possible to repair wood that has rot. First, you need to make sure that the cause of the rot has been dealt with. Look for leaks on the roof and other areas where water could get into the wood.
Next, you will need to take out any rotten parts of the window frame. This can be done using an axe, a claw hammer, or rasp. After removing the rotten wood, you'll need replace it with new wood. Pre-treated wood is suggested for this project since it will resist rot. If you are not able to replace the timber that has rotted, you can use wood hardener and filler to reinforce the damaged area. Most hardware stores will have this type of product. To achieve the best results, follow the directions on the label.
After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is crucial to protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant the wood. A product such as Sikkens is a great choice to accomplish this task.
You can also apply an epoxy filler with two parts to shield the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and leaves a beautiful finish. It is important to follow the instructions on the label. Once the epoxy filler has dried, you can rub the wood's surface. It is best to begin with a rough grade of sandpaper before moving to a smoother grade.
You don't want to expose your damaged part to further moisture. Therefore, it is a good idea to cover the area that has been repaired with an oil-based primer that will protect it from moisture. After that, you can apply the wood sealant that is waterproof.
Won't Open
A window that isn't opening can be caused by various factors. Wood frames can warp in wet weather, the house may have settled or someone could have nailed it shut for security reasons. However, with a little patience and the right tools, most windows that are stuck can be opened.
Accumulated debris or gunk can be a major cause of a window not opening. Dirt and grime build up on sliding tracks, hinges and locks over time, says Acme Glass. Metal hardware can also rust when it comes in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spray grease on these areas will help prevent oxidation, and keep your windows functioning well.
The pulleys used to raise or lower the window can be loosened, or break. These parts can lose tension and cause obstruction when they are placed two or more floors above the surface.
If you're having trouble opening windows try using a pry bar to gently push the window to open a bit at one time. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to scratch the wood or the window. Alternately, you can run a hair dryer across the edges of the frame for several minutes to warm the wood and assist it move more easily.
A faulty spring can also be the reason for windows that don't raise or lower. Depending on the manufacturer of your windows, you will have to consult the owner's manual for additional instructions.
If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and then lubricating them but they're still unable to open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let the windows in your home become functional to useless. A window that isn’t properly shut could expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact us for more information on our windows replacement services and products today!