Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Maintenance of windows and doors and repair can benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs as well as increasing comfort and security. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes in the COVID-19 pandemic in order to enhance their living conditions without having to move.
Repair any damaged or loose casing as soon as you can. They are usually an indication of moisture intrusion and can be fixed with minimal cost.
Broken or cracked glass
You may be wondering if it is possible to fix your broken or cracked window glass or do you need to replace it. The answer is contingent on a variety of aspects, such as the severity of the break and the cause and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
In most cases, it's simpler to repair a damaged window than replace it. It is important to determine what caused the crack, and act swiftly to ensure that the crack doesn't get any worse. This is particularly important when it comes to impact breaks such as those caused by lawnmowers or a child's ball.
Take out any pieces of the window that are still within its frame or on the floor. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear eye protection. Utilize a chisel or a knife to gently remove any glaze that is holding the pieces in place.
Once you have removed any shards of glass Clean up the area and dispose of them appropriately. Always wear protective gloves and closed-toe shoes when handling glass or mirror pieces as they are extremely sharp. It is also a good idea to cordon off the area, shut the door, and instruct your household members not to enter until the broken glass has been cleaned.
It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame and muntins or mullions that support the glass pane. This is because rust and corrosion can damage these components, which could cause further problems for windows.
Replace the window if are concerned about long-term damage. Tempered glass is more robust than regular glass, and breaks into smaller granular pieces that are less likely than shards that are jagged to cause injuries.
If you are not sure about tackling the task on your own or if it's more efficient to replace your window contact a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window and Door Doctors are experts in fixing and replacing windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other accidents. They can help you decide whether it is more efficient to fix the problem quickly than a larger window replacement.
Frame Damaged
The window frame goes through lots of wear and tear, so it's not a surprise that it gets damaged often. Some damage is cosmetic and can be repaired, while others such as damaged frames may be more severe and should be addressed quickly to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
Wood rot on window frames can be unsightly and lead to many problems like mold and fungus. They can impact your home's health and value. To repair this problem start by removing all weatherstripping, and then removing the decayed wood by using a chisel or a saw. After you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, use an online kit or at a hardware store that includes all the equipment and parts you require to replace it.
Moisture-related cracks in the window frames are another frequent issue that should be addressed as soon as is possible. This is especially crucial since 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 difficulty opening or closing windows. This could be caused by several different factors. The problem may simply be due to the accumulation of dust or dirt that makes it difficult for the sash to move, or the frame itself might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to properly open and close.
If your window frame displays visible signs of damage after an incident, it's an excellent idea to consult an expert. The damage could be so severe that a full window replacement might be the only or best alternative. You could be able make a claim through your insurance company to cover the cost of any repairs or replacements.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals offer the final layer of protection against moisture and air infiltration that could damage windows. They also help maintain a comfortable temperature inside and help reduce energy costs. If you observe that your window seals aren't working 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, whether they're single-paned or double-paned is held in place by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. As time passes, the constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sunlight can cause the material to break down, allowing humidity and air to enter between the panes. If the window contained inert gas, the increased insulating value is lost as well. This is the reason windows with broken seals will become brittle.
The most effective thing to do should you suspect that your window seals are failing is to follow the manufacturer's care instructions. It might seem like a straightforward task however, it's something many homeowners skip over. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaner will prolong their lifespan and ensure they are in good condition.
A feeling of draftiness is one of the signs that your window seal is failing particularly on the cold winter days. This is because the warm air in your home is being pulled out from the window by cold air outside. If you notice that suddenly your energy bills are more expensive than normal it could be because your windows allow in more cold air.
Moisture between the glass panes of your windows is another indication that your seals aren't working. This moisture can be an elongated line of clear water or a perpetual haze that blocks your view. The moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration crack that occurs when the window seal is damaged. It can be fixed by resealing using polyurethane to seal the inner aluminum spacer.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and mullions, which are the wood strips that separate panes of glass in single-pane windows, can be real or fake. If they're damaged window repair experts can usually repair them. They will remove the glass, scrape and clean the area, then rebuild any rotted or split muntins or mullions. This is often a cheaper option than replacing the entire window.
Often, the less obvious issues are overlooked. While damage to your frame may be apparent from the force of rain, snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as obvious. For example, a crack in the drip cap (the piece made of steel that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture enter the home, leading to mould, rot and even insect infestation. A damaged sash cable could also cause rattles and draughts when the windows are opened or closed.
Repairing windows that leak or creates draughts is expensive particularly if water seeps into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks fixed as soon as they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges in old windows or by poorly designed windows that allow air through. Window & Door Doctor can repair draughts and leaks without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is sagging, damaged, cracked or missing, it's likely to need to be replaced. the glass doctor is not a job that can be done by an amateur. The surrounding wall may be in bad condition and will need to be rebuilt. Casings that are loose are ugly however, it allows air and moisture to infiltrate the home which can reduce energy efficiency. It is possible to replace it with primed wood exterior casing, found at many home centers or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. They are more weatherproof than wood, and will not need to be painted frequently to maintain their integrity. All replacement casings should be painted using exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.