Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors and maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing energy bills as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to increase the value of their home and improve their living conditions without the need to move.
Repair any loose or rotting casing as soon as you can. They are usually an indication of moisture intrusion and can be fixed with minimal cost.
Cracked or Broken Glass
If the glass in your windows has broken or cracked, you're probably wondering whether you can fix it or whether you need to invest in a new replacement. The answer depends on many factors, including the severity of the break and the type of glass you have in your window.
Most times cracks or broken window can be repaired instead of replacing it. The key is to figure out what caused the crack and quickly act so it doesn't worsen. This is particularly important for fractures from impact, such as an object from the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the children.
Before you can take care of a cracked or broken window, you'll need to remove any pieces that are still in the frame or on the ground. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear eye protection. Use a chisel or putty knife to remove any glaze that holds the pieces in place.
Once you have removed the glass shards tidy up the area and dispose of them in a proper manner. Wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when working with mirrors or glass, as these can be very sharp. It is also recommended to secure off the area, shut the door, and tell members of your household not to be allowed to enter until the broken glass is cleaned up.
It is also recommended to inspect the condition of the frame and muntins or mullions that are used to support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by corrosion and rust and could cause more problems with the windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, consider replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass, and it breaks into smaller pieces that are less likely than shards that are jagged to cause injury.
If you're not sure about tackling the task yourself or if it's more economical to replace your window, call a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window and door doctors are experts in repairing or replacing doors and windows damaged by vandalism, storms or other events. They can also help you determine between a quick fix or more comprehensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
The window frame endures a lot of wear and tear, so it's not a surprise that it is damaged from time to time. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, however other damage such as damaged frames could be more severe and should be addressed quickly to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
Wood rot on window frames can be ugly and lead to many problems, including fungus and mold. This can negatively impact the health of your home and its value. To remedy this issue, remove any weatherstripping before cutting off the rotten wood using a chisel or saw. After you have removed the damaged section of the frame, you can use an online kit or at a hardware shop that includes all the tools and parts that you need to replace it.
Moisture-related cracks in the window frames are another frequent issue that should be addressed immediately. This is especially crucial since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which can cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When the wood cracks, it allows moisture to leak into your home, which could cause damage to the structure of your house and your belongings and even the health of your family.
Another common problem is difficulty opening or closing windows. This is caused by several different factors. The problem could be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt that makes it difficult for the sash or frame to move.
If your window frame exhibits obvious signs of damage following an event, it's an excellent idea to consult an expert. The damage could be so severe that a total replacement of your window could be the only or most effective alternative. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be eligible to file an insurance claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals provide the final layer of protection from air and moisture infiltration, which can damage windows. They also aid in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside and reduce energy bills. If you observe that your window seals aren't working or you've noticed an increase in your energy bills, it's essential to fix the issue before it worsens.
Whether your windows are single or double pane, the glass within them is held in place by an aluminum spacer inside and polyurethane, sandwiching the two panes of tempered or annealed glass. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sunshine can cause the material to break down allowing air and humidity to seep between the panes. If window doctor Repair My Windows And Doors is made up of inert gas, the increased insulation value will be also lost. This is the reason a window that has broken seals will fog.
The best option to take should you suspect that the window seals on your home are failing is to follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. It may seem obvious however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaning agent will extend their life and keep them in top condition.
A feeling of draftiness is a sign that your window seal is failing, especially during an icy winter day. The cold air outside is dragging warm air from your window. If you notice that your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be because your windows let in more cold air.
The presence of water between the glass panes of your windows is a further sign that your seals are not working. The moisture could be a thin line of clear water or a permanent haze that blocks your view. Moisture between the glass is the result of an infiltration gap caused by the window seal failing, and it can usually be repaired by sealing the inner aluminum spacer with polyurethane.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
The strips of wood used to separate the panes of single-pane glass may be real or fake. Window repair experts can repair them if they are damaged. They will remove all the glass clean and scrape off the area before re-building any mullias or muntins that are rotted or damaged. This is often a cheaper solution than replacing an entire window.
Often the more obscure issues are often overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from heavy rains, snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as apparent. A crack in the dripcap (the cap made of metal that covers the top of the frame) could allow moisture to enter the home. This can lead to rot and mould. A sash cord that is damaged can also cause draughts or rattles when the window is opened or closed.
Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot particularly if water seeps into the wall. Any leaks should be repaired as soon as is possible. Draughts are usually caused by hinges that are not working properly in old windows or by poorly designed windows that allow air in. Window & Door doctor is able to fix leaks and draughts, without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is damaged cracking, rotting, cracked or completely missing, it will need to be replaced. This is not a job that can be accomplished by an amateur. The wall around it could be in poor condition and will need to be rebuilt. Loose casing is unattractive but, more importantly, it allows moisture and air to get into the house which decreases the efficiency of energy. It can be replaced with pre-painted wood exterior casing available at most home centers, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. They are more resistant to weather than wood, and will not require painting as often to maintain the integrity. Regardless of the material, all replacement casings must be painted with a paint that is designed for exterior use.