Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance benefits homeowners by reducing their energy costs as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes in the COVID-19 pandemic in order to add value and improve their living conditions without having to move.
Exterior casings that are loose or rotting should be repaired as soon as possible. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and are able to be repaired at minimal cost.
Cracked or Broken Glass
You might be wondering whether you can fix your broken or cracked window glass or do you need to replace it. The answer will depend on a variety of aspects, such as the severity of the crack, what caused it, and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
Most times, a cracked or broken window can be fixed rather than replaced. The trick is to figure out what caused the crack and then act swiftly to stop it from becoming worse. This is particularly important in the case of fractures caused by impact, such as those caused by lawnmowers or a ball for children.
Before you can repair damaged or cracked windows, 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 protective eyewear. If there is window doctor Repair My Windows And Doors glazing holding the pieces in place, use a putty knife or chisel to gently release them.
Once you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean up the area and dispose of them properly. Always wear protective gloves and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces as they are extremely sharp. You can also cordon off an area, close the door and instruct your family members to not enter the room until broken glass pieces have been cleaned.
Make sure to inspect the frame, multins and mullions which support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by corrosion and rust, which could lead to more problems with the windows.
If you're concerned about long-term damage, consider replacing the window with tempered glass. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and breaks into smaller granular pieces which are less likely to break than sharp shards of glass to cause injuries.
If you're not confident in tackling the job yourself or you think it would be more efficient to have your window replaced or repaired, contact a professional assist with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are skilled in fixing and replacing windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other accidents. They can assist you in deciding whether an immediate fix is better than a larger window replacement.
Damaged Frame
The window frame is subject to lots of wear and wear and tear, which is why it's no surprise that it is damaged often. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, but others like rotted frames can be serious and need to be dealt with immediately to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
The rotted wood around window frames can be ugly and lead to many problems such as mold and fungus. These can affect the health of your home and its value. To remedy this issue, remove any weatherstripping before cutting away the decayed wood using a chisel or saw. After you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, use a kit available online or at a hardware store that includes all the tools and parts you need to repair it.
Another common problem that needs to be addressed is the moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is important because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which can cause the wood to expand and expand as it absorbs and releases moisture. If wood cracks, it allows moisture into your home. This can be damaging to your house's structure as well as your possessions and even your family's health.
Difficulty opening or closing the window is a common problem that could have different reasons. The issue could be caused by a buildup in dirt or dust, which makes it difficult for the frame or sash to move.
If your window frame exhibits visible signs of damage after a storm it is recommended to consult an expert. The damage may be so severe that a full replacement of your window could be the only or most effective option. You might be able to submit a claim to your insurance company to pay the cost of repairs or replacements.
Damaged Seals
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration, which can cause damage to windows. They also help maintain an ideal temperature inside and help reduce energy costs. If you notice that your window seals aren't working or you've noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is important to fix the problem before it gets any worse.
The glass in your windows, whether they're single-paned or double-paned is held together by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. As time passes, the constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sun can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to enter between the panes. If the window was made of inert gas, the increased insulation value is lost as well. This is the reason why a window that has broken seals will fog.
If you suspect that the window seals on your windows aren't working, it is best to adhere to the instructions for maintenance provided by the manufacturer. It might seem obvious, but many homeowners overlook this step. Cleaning your windows regularly with the cleaning agent you have recommended will extend the lifespan of your windows and ensure they are working at their peak.
A drafty feeling is one of the indicators that the window seal has failed, 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 more expensive than normal it could be because your windows allow in more cold air.
The presence of moisture between the glass panes of your windows is a further sign that your seals aren't working. The moisture could be an elongated line of clear water or a permanent haze that interferes with your view. Moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal is damaged. This can be repaired by resealing with polyurethane the inner aluminum spacer.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
The wood strips used to separate the panes of single-pane glass can be real or fake. If they're damaged window repair experts are able to fix them. They will take the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then replace any broken or rotted muntins or mullions. In many instances, this is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.
Oft the more obscure issues are overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from heavy rains or snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as evident. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that is placed on top of the window frame) could allow moisture into the home. This can cause mould and rot. A damaged sash cord could also cause draughts or rattles when windows are open or closed.
Repairing windows that leak or causes draughts can be costly, especially if water gets into the wall. It is essential to get any leaks fixed when they are detected. Draughts are usually caused by faulty hinges in old windows or poorly designed windows that allow air in. Window & Door doctor can repair draughts and leaks without replacing the entire window.
If the casing around your window is damaged or cracked, rotting, or missing entirely the casing will need to be replaced. This is not a job that can be done by a novice. The wall surrounding it may be in poor condition and may require to be rebuilt. The casing that is loose is ugly however it allows air and moisture to enter the home, which reduces energy efficiency. Home centers typically offer primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. These are more weatherproof than wood and do not need to be painted regularly to maintain the integrity. Regardless of the material, any replacement casings must be painted with a high-quality exterior paint.