Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors and maintenance benefit homeowners by reducing energy bills as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without having to relocate.
Loose or rotting exterior casing should be fixed as soon as possible. These are often a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired at minimal cost.
Broken or cracked glass
If the glass in your windows is cracked or broken, you're probably wondering whether you can fix it or if you'll need to invest in a new replacement. The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the crack and the cause and what type of glass is used in your windows.
In most instances, it's easier to fix a damaged or cracked window than to replace it. The key is to pinpoint what caused the crack and then act swiftly to stop it from becoming worse. This is particularly crucial with impact breaks, such as an object from the lawn mower or an object thrown by children.
Take out any windowsills that are still in its frame or on the floor. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear protective eyewear. Utilize a chisel or a knife to remove any glaze that holds the pieces together.
After you have removed any shards of glass, carefully clean the area and dispose of them appropriately. Wear gloves and closed-toe shoes whenever you are handling glass or mirrors, because they can be extremely sharp. It is also an excellent idea to fence off the area, close the door, and instruct your household members not to enter until the broken glass has been cleaned up.
Examine the frame, muntins and mullions that hold the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by rust and corrosion which can cause more problems with the windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage to your window, you should think about replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more durable than normal glass and breaks into small granular chunks which are less likely to cause injury than sharp shards of traditional glass.
If you're not confident in tackling the task on your own, or it is more cost-effective to have your window replaced, call a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window and Door Doctors are skilled in repair and replacement of windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other accidents. They can also assist you to decide between a quick fix or more comprehensive 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 gets damaged from time to time. While some of the damage is cosmetic and can be fixed easily, others such as damaged frames are serious problems that must be addressed promptly to prevent more extensive repairs or replacement costs.
The wood rot that is a part of the window frames is not only unattractive, but it can also cause various issues including fungus, mold, and pests that will affect your home's value as well as its health. To repair this problem, start by removing any weatherstripping and then cutting away the decayed wood with a chisel or saw. After removing the damaged frame you can buy an entire kit from an online hardware store or a hardware store that includes all of the tools and parts needed to repair it.
Cracks caused by moisture in the window frames are another frequent problem that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels that can cause wood to swell and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When the wood cracks, it allows moisture to get into your home, which can be damaging to the structure of your home and your belongings and even the health of your family.
Another issue that is common is the difficulty in opening or closing a window. This can be caused by a variety of reasons. The problem may simply be due to the accumulation of dirt or dust that makes it difficult for the sash to move, or the frame itself could have suffered some type of structural damage that has affected its ability to open and close properly.
If you see evidence of damage to the frame of your window after a storm, then it's best to consult with an expert, since the damage could be so severe that a complete replacement of your window is the best or only option. You might be able to make a claim through your insurance company to pay the cost of 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're also responsible for helping to maintain the temperature of your home at a comfortable level and reducing energy bills. 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 worsens.
The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they are single-paned or double-paned, is held together by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. Over time, temperature cycling in the Phoenix sun can cause the material to break down, allowing humidity and air to enter between the panes. The window's insulation value is also lost if it contained inert gases. This is the primary reason a window that has a leaky seal will begin to become smudged.
If you suspect that the window seals on your windows aren't working you should follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. It may seem obvious however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaning agent will prolong their lifespan and keep them in top condition.
A feeling of draftiness is one of the indicators that the window seal has failed particularly on an icy winter day. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air from your window. Also, if you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than usual without an explanation Your windows could be letting in too much cold air.
The presence of moisture between the glass panes of your windows is a further sign that your seals are not working. This moisture may be a thin, clear line or it could be a permanent haze interfering with your view of the outdoors. The condensation between the glass is the result of an infiltration gap caused by the window seal failing and can be repaired by sealing the aluminum spacer inside 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 take the glass, scrape and clean the area, then rebuild any damaged or broken muntins or mullions. In many instances, this is a cheaper option than replacing the entire window.
While the damage to your window frame due to heavy rain snow melt or humidity can be obvious, less-obvious issues are sometimes overlooked. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that covers the top of the window frame) could allow moisture into the home. This can cause mould and rot. A damaged sash cable could also cause rattles or draughts when the windows are shut or opened.
A window that has a leak or that is causing draughts can be expensive to repair, especially if the water leaks into walls. The leaks must be fixed as soon as possible. Draughts can often be caused by defective hinges on old windows, or because of poorly designed windows that let air through. Window and Door Doctor can repair draughts and leaks without replacing the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loosened cracking, rotting, cracked or missing entirely, it will need to be replaced. This is not an undertaking that can be done by a non-professional. The surrounding wall may be in poor condition and may require to be rebuilt. It is not only unsightly, but it also allows air and moisture to get into the home. This decreases the efficiency of the home. Home centers typically offer primed wood exterior casing or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. These are more weatherproof than wood and do not need to be painted as often to maintain the integrity. Repair My Windows And Doors must be painted with exterior grade paint, regardless of the material.