Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance benefit homeowners by reducing their energy bills, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to increase the value of their home and improve living conditions without having to move.
Loose or rotting exterior casing must be repaired as quickly as possible. They are usually an indication of moisture intrusion and can be repaired with little expense.
Cracked or Broken Glass
You might be wondering if it is possible to repair the crack or broken window glass or whether you should replace it. The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the crack, what caused it, and what type of glass is used in your windows.
In the majority of cases, it is easier to repair a damaged window than to replace it. The trick is to determine what caused the crack and then act swiftly so it doesn't worsen. This is particularly important for cracks caused by impact, like a rock thrown by the lawn mower or an object thrown by children.
Remove any windowsills that are still within its frame or on the floor. This should be done while wearing sturdy work gloves and protective eyewear. Use a chisel or putty knife to gently remove any glaze that is holding the pieces together.
After you have removed the glass shards tidy up the area and dispose of them in a safe way. Wear protective gloves and closed toe shoes whenever you are handling glass or mirrors, since they can be extremely sharp. It is also a good idea to cordon off the area, shut the door, and tell your family members not to enter until the broken glass is cleaned up.
It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame as well as muntins or mullions which support the glass pane. These components can be damaged by rust and corrosion and could cause further problems with the windows.
If you're worried about the long-term damage, consider replacing the window with tempered glass. Tempered glass is more robust than regular glass, and it can break into smaller granular pieces which are less likely to break than shards that are jagged to cause injury.
If you're not confident enough to tackle the task yourself or you think it would be more economical to replace your window contact a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window and Door Doctors are experts in repairing and replacing windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other accidents. They can also assist you to determine between a quick fix or a more comprehensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
The window frame goes through lots of wear and tear, so it's no surprise that it is damaged at times. Some of the damage is cosmetic and can be repaired, however other damage such as damaged frames may be more severe and should be dealt with immediately to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
The wood rot that is a part of the windows frames isn't just ugly, but it can also lead to various issues such as mold, fungus and pests that could affect both your home's value as well as its health. To remedy this issue take off any weatherstripping prior to cutting away the rotten wooden with a chisel or a saw. Once you've removed the damaged portion of the frame, you can use a kit sold online or in a hardware store that includes all the tools and components that you need to repair it.
Another common problem that must be addressed is the moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is particularly important because North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels that can cause wood to swell and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks, it lets moisture into your home. This can be harmful to your house's structure as well as your possessions and even your family's health.
Another common problem is the difficulty in opening or closing a window. This could be caused by a variety of factors. The problem could be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt which causes the sash or frame to move.
If your window frame displays obvious signs of damage following a storm it is an excellent idea to consult an expert. The damage could be so severe that a total replacement of the window is the only alternative. You might be able to file a claim with your insurance company to cover the cost of any repairs or replacements.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals are the last layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration, which can cause damage to windows. They also help to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy bills. If you notice that your window seals are failing or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is essential to fix the issue before it gets worse.
The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they're single-paned or double-paned is held together by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between two panes. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sun can cause this material to break down, allowing humidity and air to pass through the panes. If the window contained inert gas, its enhanced insulation value is lost as well. This is the reason why a window that has broken seals can become foggy.
The most effective thing to do when you suspect your window seals are failing is to follow the manufacturer's instructions. This might seem like a simple task but it's a step that many homeowners skip over. Cleaning your windows regularly with the cleaning agent you have recommended will help to extend the lifespan of your windows and keep them working at their peak.
A drafty feeling is one of the indicators that the window seal has failed especially on a cold winter's day. This is because the warm air in your home is being drawn out through the window by the cold air outside. Also, if you notice that your energy bills are suddenly higher than usual without a reason the windows could let in too much cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is if you can see water between the glass of your windows. It could be an invisible, thin line or it could be a permanent cloud that blocks your view of the outdoors. The cause of moisture in glass is by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal fails. It can be fixed by resealing using polyurethane to seal the inner aluminum spacer.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
Muntins and Mullions, the strips of wood that separate panes of glass in single-pane windows, may be fake or real. If they are damaged, window repair experts will usually repair them. They will remove the glass, scrape and clean the area, and then replace any damaged or broken muntins or mullions. In many instances, this is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.
Oft problems that are not obvious are often ignored. While damage to your frame may be apparent from heavy rains snow melt, humidity, other issues might not be as apparent. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that protects the top of the frame) can allow moisture into the home. This can cause rot and mould. A damaged sash cable may also cause rattles and draughts when windows are opened or closed.
A leaking window or one that has caused draughts could be costly to repair particularly in the event that the water leaks through walls. It is important to have any leaks fixed as soon as they are detected. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges on old windows or by badly designed windows that let air in. Window & Doors Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loose or damaged, cracked or missing, it will have to be replaced. This isn't an easy task for a novice because the wall could be in a state of disrepair and requires a new build as well. window doctors near me that are loose are ugly, but more importantly it allows air and moisture to enter the home, which reduces energy efficiency. Most home centers offer primed wood exterior casings or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. They are more weather-resistant than wood, and will require painting frequently to ensure the quality of the product. Regardless of the material, any replacement casings should be treated with a high-quality exterior paint.