It is not for the faint-hearted. It's expensive too.
Repairing damaged windows can save you money and improve your home's energy efficiency. It is important to understand what causes your windows to work and not work.
All of your window frames, sills and glass are at risk of being damaged. What should you be looking for?
Frame
The frame is a component of the window that connects it to the rest of your house. The frame can be made from wood or metal depending on the type of window. The frame should be in good order to ensure that the window will be properly fitted and open and close it easily. If it's getting rotten, it has to be replaced or repaired.
Wind, sun and moisture can cause damage to frames and windows. Regular maintenance is the best method to ensure that your window frames are in good shape. This means cleaning them frequently and looking for signs of damage.
Dry rot is among the most common problems with windows. This happens when wood is damp for an extended period of time. It is usually because water has seeped through a defect or crack in the frame. If left uncorrected, it can quickly cause indoor leaks following rain storms.
Dry rot is a significant problem that requires professional repair however, you can usually stop it by recognizing it early. Check for paint that peels or cracks, as well as areas where the wood appears distorted or soft. You can also try pressing on different parts of the frame to see if it feels solid or if it presses easily.
It is recommended to contact a carpenter for repairs if you suspect rot. They can repair the damaged area by applying an anti-corrosive coating of stain or paint, and replace the damaged wooden pieces. In the most extreme cases, a complete replacement may be required.
The most important thing to remember about fixing and maintaining your window frames is that it's all about preventive maintenance. A little bit of work now could save you a great deal of money and trouble down the road.
Glass
A pebble from your lawnmower could fly into your window or your cat could smash your vase. Whatever the reason for the break, you'll need to fix it before a crack spreads. You'll want to know what happened so you can avoid it repeating itself.
Glass and windows need regular cleaning, especially in harsh environments. Glass can be damaged or stained by chemicals such as concrete leachate, construction dust and rusting metal. The best method to maintain their appearance is to clean them with a mixture made of water and soap, or glass cleaner.
Certain kinds of broken glass like glasses with a clean, or broken surface and can be glued together. You can buy glass adhesive on the internet or at most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on the bottle to ensure a sturdy and long-lasting repair. If you're unsure whether to apply epoxy or something else, consult a professional. They can help you make the right decision based upon the type of glass you're using and the reason for it to break.
Older windows are more likely to be fitted with glazing putty holding the glass in place. Depending on the type of glass, it might be secured by glazing points. These are tiny metal pieces that are inserted into wood to hold the window. Remove them carefully using the help of a screwdriver if there are one in your home prior to trying to fix the glass.
It's possible to buy traditional glazing putty in caulk tubes. It is easier to apply using the help of a knife. Once you've learned how to hang it, it will produce a smoother surface. It's a good idea to keep a few of these around, as it's an inexpensive way to repair broken window panes and seals.
Once a crack in glass is discovered, it will continue to increase unless you take measures to stop it. The most popular methods to fix cracked glass are:
Seals
Window seals are an essential part of the overall insulation of your home. They block moisture or air from getting into or out of your window glass and help your home keep a constant temperature throughout the year. However, these vital components are susceptible to wear and tear, which can lead to their failure. If not addressed the damage to a window seal can result in higher energy bills as your windows no longer act as an effective insulator from outdoor temperatures and increased moisture build-up within your living space, which can cause mildew and mold to grow.
Foggy windows are one of the most commonly reported indicators that the seal on your window has failed. This is caused by condensation that forms between the panes of your double or triple-pane window. This is a sign that the gas that is an insulative (usually argon or Krypton) vacuum-sealed between the two glass panes has escaped, creating a void in which outside air can pass through and inside humidity escape.
A damaged seal can increase the cost of energy, since it will no longer prevent the heat from escaping in winter and your HVAC system in summer will have to work harder to cool your home due to the hot air coming through your windows. This is why it's essential to purchase high-quality windows that are designed with a long service life.
It is a good idea to have your windows put in and checked by a professional regularly to ensure that you are aware of any potential problems before they become severe enough to require expensive repairs. This is particularly true when you have windows that are older, since the age of your windows may affect their ability to perform optimally.
In repairmywindowsanddoors to the regular inspections, make sure to perform regular window maintenance, such as caulking around the edges of your windows at least each year to reduce the extent to which your frames and glass are subject to natural fluctuations in temperature and humidity that can damage a window seal. It's also an excellent idea to consult with an experienced window installer who can suggest additional glazing and coating options that will further enhance the energy efficiency of your windows.
Weather-Stripping
Sometimes, it is not noticed that the weather-stripping around your windows and doors helps to protect your business or home from drafts. This type of seal deflects cold air and water and returns warm air back to the place it belongs, the building's interior. There are a variety of different types of weather stripping, all specifically designed to meet specific needs. Foam tapes are self-adhesive, and are made of polyurethane, a foam material. It is easy to use and works well for gaps that are irregularly sized. Tubular rubber or silicone is more durable, and is also more efficient. This is particularly applicable to the bottom of sliding windows or casement. Magnetic strips are a different kind of weather stripping that uses magnets to guarantee a tight closure. They're ideal for doors and windows that open and close frequently.
If you have a window that seems to be leaking, the first spot to look is the weather-stripping. Old weather-stripping may become dry and brittle and this usually results in loose gaps that allow cold air to get in and warm air to escape. Removing the old weather-stripping, wiping down the area, and applying new caulk can fix the problem.
Consider coating your weather-stripping with silicone spray or paste once it's been installed to protect it from the elements and to prevent leaks. This is a straightforward do-it-yourself task that can reduce your energy bills by reducing air leaks and keeping your indoor temperature stable.
While you're repairing or replacing the weatherstripping on your windows, be sure to inspect the caulking around the other areas of your window frame. It's important to make sure there is a strong seal, and tight, especially around the corners where the frame connects to the wall.
Light a candle, and move it by a few inches in between the interior stop molding and the window sash. The rising smoke will cause airflow to be disrupted, revealing any leaks or drafts. It is easier to repair these areas before they worsen, so consider making an annual inspection part of your routine cleaning.
