Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance benefits homeowners by reducing their energy costs, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 epidemic to add value and improve their living conditions without the need to relocate.
Exterior casings that are loose or rotting should be fixed as soon as possible. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and can be repaired with minimal expense.
Cracked or Broken Glass
If your window's glass 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 is contingent on a variety of factors including the severity of the break and the type of glass used in your window.
Most of the time cracks or broken window can be repaired rather than replaced. The trick is to determine the cause of the crack and act quickly so it doesn't worsen. This is particularly important in the case of break-ups from impact like those caused by a lawnmowers or a child's ball.
Before you can take care of a cracked or broken window You'll need to take out any pieces that remain in the frame or on the ground. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear eye protection. If there is any glass holding the pieces in place Use a putty knife or chisel to gently release them.
After you have removed any glass shards Clean the area and dispose of them appropriately. Always wear protective gloves and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces as they are extremely sharp. It is also an excellent idea to fence off the area, shut the door, and instruct your family members not to go in until the broken glass has been cleaned up.
Examine the frame, muntins and mullions that support the glass pane. These components can be damaged by corrosion and rust, which could lead to further problems with the windows.
If you're worried about the long-term damage to your window, you should think about replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and it breaks into smaller pieces of granular material which are less likely to break than shards that are jagged to cause injuries.
If you are not confident in tackling the job yourself or you think it would be more efficient to have your window replaced contact a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window & door doctors are experts in repairing or replacing doors and windows damaged by storms, vandalism, or other incidents. They can also assist you to choose between a quick fix or a more extensive window replacement project.
Damaged Frame
It's not surprising that the window frame gets damaged. While some damage is cosmetic and can be fixed easily, others such as damaged frames are serious problems which must be dealt with immediately to avoid costly repairs or replacement costs.
Wood rot on window frames can be ugly and can cause a variety of problems such as mold and fungus. They can impact the health of your home as well as its value. To fix this issue start by removing all weatherstripping, and then removing the decayed wood with a chisel or saw. After you have removed the damaged part of the frame, use a kit available online or at a hardware shop that comes with all the tools and components you need to repair it.
Cracks caused by moisture in the window framing are a common issue that should be addressed as soon as possible. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which could cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks, it lets moisture into your home. This could be detrimental to the structure of your home, your possessions, and even your family's health.
Inability to open or close the window is a common problem that could have different reasons. The issue could be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt which makes it more difficult for the sash to move or the frame might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to properly open and close.
If your window frame shows visible signs of damage after an event, it's a good idea that you consult an expert. The damage may be so extensive that a complete window replacement might be the only or best alternative. You may be able to submit a claim to your insurance company to cover the cost of any repairs or replacements.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are the final layer of protection against air and moisture which can cause damage to windows. They also help to keep a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy costs. If you notice that your window seals are failing 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 inside them is held by an aluminum spacer as well as polyurethane, sandwiching the two panes of annealed or tempered glass. The constant temperature fluctuations in Phoenix's sunshine can cause the glass to degrade over time, allowing humidity and air to seep through the panes. If the window contained inert gas, its enhanced insulation value is lost as well. This is the primary reason why a window with broken seals will start to fog.
The most effective thing to do if you suspect that your window seals aren't working is to follow the manufacturer's instructions. It may seem obvious but many homeowners fail to take this step. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaning agent will extend their life and ensure they are in good condition.
The signs that the window seal is not working include a drafty sensation particularly on an icy winter day. The cold air outside is dragging warm air out of your window. Also, if you notice that your energy costs are suddenly higher than normal without a reason Your windows could let in too much cold air.
The presence of moisture between the windows' glass panes is another indication that your seals are failing. This moisture can be an elongated line of clear water or a perpetual cloud that blocks your view. Moisture between the glass is the result of an infiltration breach caused by the window seal failing and can be repaired by sealing the spacer in the aluminum with polyurethane.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and Mullions, the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single-pane windows, can be real or fake. Window repair experts can repair them if they are damaged. They will take the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then replace any damaged or broken muntins or mullions. This is usually a less expensive alternative than replacing a complete window.
While the damage to your window frame due to heavy rain snow melt, humidity or even heavy rain may be obvious, the less obvious problems are often overlooked. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that is placed on top of the frame) could allow moisture into the home. This can cause mould and rot. A broken sash cord can also lead to draughts and rattles when the window is shut or opened.
A window that has a leak or that has caused draughts could be costly to fix, especially in the event that the water leaks through walls. Any leaks should be repaired promptly. 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 the need to replace the entire window.
If the casing surrounding your window is damaged, loose, cracked, rotten, or missing, it's going to need to be replaced. This is not an undertaking that can be completed by a non-professional. The wall surrounding it may be in bad condition and should be repaired. Loose casing is unattractive, but more importantly, it allows moisture and air to get into the house, which reduces energy efficiency. It can be replaced with primed wood exterior casing, available at many home centers or low-maintenance vinyl PVC products. They are more resistant to weather than wood, and will require painting frequently to preserve the integrity of the product. Regardless of glass doctor used, all replacement casings should be treated with a paint that is designed for exterior use.