How to Find a Local Window Repair Specialist
Windows are an integral part of the design of a house and repairing or replacing windows is an important home improvement task. You can save money by finding a local team of window repair experts who are knowledgeable of the design of your windows.
Minor repairs can be made by you, but major frame cracks and frames that are not fitting should be left to experts.
Paint
Window frames and sills need to be painted, in order to look good, but there are a number of important aspects that need to be taken into consideration before making the DIY paint job. You must first consider any previous repairs and the condition of the wood beneath. This isn't a simple task since it will depend on when the window was painted, but a thorough inspection should reveal any soft or decaying areas that need to be taken care of. If the wood is in a good state it is possible to use LiquidWood to consolidate it. If the frame is made from a more fragile material it is best to seek out an expert to ensure repairs are made properly and in the best quality.
When you are sure the frame is solid then you can prepare it to paint by scraping away any flaking or peeling areas of paint using a utility knife and then washing the frame with water and soap to wash away dirt and debris. Once the window is clean then you can apply a primer to help the new coat of paint adhere. A high-quality primer for exterior use is crucial and you should allow it to dry completely before continuing with the painting process.
Selecting the right paint is essential for the durability of your windows. Oil-based paint is recommended for wood since it is designed specifically to withstand weathering and UV rays. Vinyl is able to be painted using latex or acrylic based on the recommendation of the manufacturer. If you choose to paint with vinyl be sure to choose a paint specifically designed for this type of coating. Other types of paint could cause adhesion problems.
Once the frame and sill have been painted, it is recommended to apply a caulking on the edges of the window as well as in any gaps to stop moisture from destroying the frame. The caulking will also improve the efficiency of your home's energy use by preventing drafts and reducing your electricity bills.
Water Damage
A small amount of water coming in through the window is a signal that you should call for repairs. Window water damage can be caused by flooding the sill or frame and causing structural problems.
Window sills and window frames are especially susceptible to water damage, since they're exposed to rain snow melt, rain, and humidity on a regular basis. Wood rot is a significant issue that needs to be dealt with immediately, since it weakens the frame over time and, if left untreated, could cause the window to collapse.
Fortunately, all kinds of window damage caused by water can be repaired. If the sill or frame is rotting or rotting, a professional can apply epoxy wood filler to repair the damage and improve the appearance of the window.
If the glass is cracked, a professional can replace the broken panes with new ones without replacing the entire window. Defogging can help repair foggy windows caused by condensation buildup. If your window is difficult to operate due to a decayed frame or a sash that is stuck it is best to replace it.
Caulking is another common window repair. This sealant is typically found in the areas of crown moldings and bathtubs however it can also be located between the window frame and the walls. When caulking wears out it will allow in cold air moisture, insects, and cool air. Luckily it is a simple fix that our technicians can do quickly and easily.
It's important to select a business with a good reputation when you're looking for a local repair company. You can check out the reputation of a contractor by reading customer testimonials or checking their Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating. Ask your family, friends and neighbors for their recommendations. Make sure you collect multiple quotes prior to making a choice. This will ensure that you get the most value for your money.
Chipped or Cracked Panes
If you spot a crack or chip in your window glass, it's important to fix it immediately by the window repair specialist in your area. If it's not taken care of the crack can easily extend across the entire glass plane and eventually break completely. This is particularly true for double-pane windows where cracks can result from thermal stress. This happens when one side of the glass is extremely hot while the other is considerably colder. This causes the glass's expansion and contraction to differ which could cause it to shatter and crack.
It is possible that your chipped or chipped glass is due to impact stress. This can be due to the ball or other object hitting the glass, or the frame or building settling. If this is the situation, you may need to replace your entire window, not just a single pane.
You can resolve this issue by using a special glass adhesive. You can locate this type of glue online or at your local auto shop and it will come with clear instructions on how to apply it. This solution is time-consuming but it's often the best option to ensure that your damaged or chipped glass remains in the right place.
Another alternative is to use a plastic brace to keep the glass that has broken in place until you can get it repaired or replaced. This will keep shards from falling into your home and will also keep rain, wind or unwanted pests away until you can address the issue properly. If you choose to use this method to protect your window, be sure to place it as far away from the crack as you can. This will minimize the damage that can occur. It is also an ideal idea to place the plastic over both sides of the window, to make it as durable as possible. The plastic acts as a barrier, stopping the chip or crack from spreading.
Rotted Wood
Rotted wood is one of the most serious problems homeowners encounter with their windows. If left unchecked it will continue to cause damage to the seals surrounding the window, allowing moisture into the structure of the house. There are a variety of methods to treat wood rot and fix damaged frames to safeguard your investment and your family's safety.
The first step is to determine whether or not windows repair there is rotting wood in the window frame. You can identify rotting wood by noticing large gaps or a spongy sensation in the wood. In these situations it is imperative to act fast. If you're not sure it's a good idea to contact an expert for a diagnosis.
After you've established that you have rotten wood, it's time to find the right solution. In the majority of cases epoxy is the ideal solution. This is a viable option because epoxy is durable, strong and waterproof. It is suitable for a variety wood types. If you decide to use this method, you will have follow the manufacturer's directions for proper application and drying. After the epoxy is applied, you will need to sand it and then paint it.
Alternately, you can opt to replace the rotted wood pieces in the window frame. This is an even more difficult repair than epoxy but is a reliable and long-term solution for wood decay. This repair is known as "splicing in" and requires an advanced level of carpentry skills. For maximum strength, it's important to use timber which has been shaped to match the existing profiles. While doing this repair, you can also apply an anti-corrosive to the wood. This will keep it protected for longer.
In some instances, the rotting is so severe that it is required to replace the wood completely. This is a more costly option than simply replacing the windows but it will offer durable protection for a long time and a longer lifespan. If the rot is occurring in the corners of a window or sill it is usually more efficient to remove the entire section and replace it with a fresh piece. This is a complex repair that should be performed by a professional.