Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor? Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing their energy bills, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes in the COVID-19 pandemic in order to enhance their living conditions without the need to relocate. Repair any damaged or loose casing as soon as you can. They are usually a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired at the least amount of expense. Cracked or Broken Glass If the glass in your windows has broken or cracked, you're probably wondering whether you can repair it or whether you need to buy a replacement. The answer will depend on a variety of aspects, such as the severity of the break and the cause and the type of glass that is used in your windows. In the majority of cases, it's simpler to repair a damaged window than replace it. It is important to determine what caused the crack and take action promptly to prevent it from continuing to get any worse. This is especially crucial in the case of break-ups from impact like those caused by a lawnmowers or a ball for a child. Take out any window pieces that are still within its frame or on the floor. Wear heavy duty work gloves and wear eye protection. Use a chisel, or a knife to remove any glaze that holds the pieces together. After you have removed any glass shards Make sure you clean up the area and dispose of them properly. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling glass or mirror pieces, as they can be extremely sharp. You can also secure an area, shut the door and tell your family members not to enter the room until the broken pieces of glass have been cleaned. It's also a good idea to check the condition of the frame and muntins and mullions that help support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust can damage these components, which could cause further issues for the windows. If you're concerned about long-term damage, think about replacing the window with temperate glass. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and it can break into smaller pieces of granular material which are less likely to break than sharp shards of glass to cause injuries. If you are not confident in tackling the task on your own or if it's more economical to have your window replaced contact a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window and door specialists are skilled at repairing or replacing windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other events. They can also help you decide between a quick fix or a more extensive window replacement project. Damaged Frame The window frame goes through a lot of wear and tear, so it's not a surprise that it's damaged at times. Some damage is cosmetic and can be easily repaired, but others like rotted frames can be serious and must be addressed quickly to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement. The wood rot that is a part of the window frames is not just unsightly but can also cause a wide range of problems like mold, fungus and pests that will impact the value of your home and its health. To fix this issue begin by removing any weatherstripping and then cutting away the rotten wood with a chisel or saw. Once you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, use a kit available online or in a hardware store that includes all the equipment and parts you need to replace it. Another issue that is commonly encountered and must be addressed is cracks caused by moisture on the window frames. This is crucial because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which can cause the wood to expand and expand as it absorbs or 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. Inability to open or close the window is another common problem that could have different causes. The problem may simply be caused by a buildup of dirt or dust that makes it harder 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 event, it's recommended to consult an expert. The damage could be so extensive that a complete replacement of the window is the only alternative. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be eligible to file a claim to pay for any repair or replacement costs. Damaged Seals Window seals are the final layer of protection against moisture and air infiltration, which could damage windows. They also aid in helping to keep the temperature of your home at a comfortable level and reducing energy bills. If your window seal is starting to fail or you've noticed an abrupt increase in your energy bills, it's important to have the problem fixed right away before it gets worse. The glass in your windows, whether they're single-paned or double-paned, is held together by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane that is sandwiched between the two panes. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sunlight can cause this material to break down, allowing humidity and air to seep between the panes. The window's insulation value is also lost if it is filled with inert gases. This is the main reason a window with a damaged seal can begin to become smudged. If you suspect that the window seals on your windows aren't working you should follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. It may seem obvious however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows using the recommended cleaning agent will prolong their life and keep them in top condition. The signs that the window seal has failed are a feeling of draftiness particularly on a cold winter day. The cold air outside is dragging warm air out of your window. If you notice that your energy bills are higher than usual it could be because your windows allow in more cold air. Another indication that the seals on your windows are breaking down is if you can see moisture in the windows' glass. This moisture can be a thin line of clear water or a perpetual haze that interferes with your view. Moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration breach that occurs when the window seal fails. This can be corrected by resealing the window with polyurethane. inner aluminum spacer. Muntins and Mullions Damaged The strips of wood used to separate the panes of single-pane glass can be fake or real. Window repair experts can repair them if damaged. They will remove all glass, clean and scrape the area, then rebuild any mullias or muntins which are rotted or damaged. In many instances this is a much more cost-effective option than replacing the entire window. While https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-doctor-cheltenham/ to your window frame due to heavy rain snow melt, humidity or even heavy rain is obvious, less obvious problems are often overlooked. For example, a crack in the drip cap (the piece of metal that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture enter the home, leading to rot, mould and even an infestation of insects. A damaged sash cord could also lead to draughts and rattles when windows are shut or opened. A leaking window or one that has caused draughts could be costly to repair particularly when the water seeps into the wall. Any leaks should be repaired as soon as possible. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges in old windows, or poorly designed windows that allow air through. Window & Door doctor is able to repair draughts and leaks without having to replace the entire window. If the casing around your window is loose or cracked, rotten, or missing, it's going to need to be replaced. This isn't necessarily an easy task for a novice, as the surrounding wall could be in disrepair and require a complete reconstruction too. Casings that are loose are ugly but, more importantly, it allows moisture and air to enter the home which decreases the efficiency of energy. Most home centers offer primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. These are more weather-resistant than wood, which will require painting frequently to preserve the quality of the product. All replacement casings should be painted with exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.