Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance benefit homeowners by reducing their energy costs as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes in the COVID-19 pandemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without having to relocate.
The exterior casing that is loose or rotting should be repaired as soon as possible. These are usually signs of moisture intrusion and can be repaired with minimal expense.
Broken or cracked glass
If your window's glass has broken or cracked, you're probably wondering whether you can repair it or if you'll need to purchase a replacement. The answer is contingent on a variety of factors including the severity of the crack and the type of glass you have in your window.
Most times, a cracked or broken window can be repaired instead of replacing it. The trick is to determine the cause of the crack and quickly act to prevent it from getting worse. This is especially crucial when it comes to impact breaks such as those caused by lawnmowers or a child's ball.
Before you can repair 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 glaze that is holding the pieces together, use a putty knife or chisel, to gently break them.
Once you have removed the glass shards take care to clean the area and dispose of them in a responsible way. Wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes whenever you are handling glass or mirrors, because they can be extremely sharp. You can also create a cordon around an area, close the door and tell your family members to not enter the room until broken glass pieces have been cleaned.
Check the frame, muntins and mullions that hold the glass pane. This is because rust and corrosion could cause damage to these parts, which could cause further problems for windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, think about replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is stronger than normal glass and breaks into small granular chunks that are less likely cause injury than jagged shards of traditional glass.
If you are not confident in tackling the task on your own or you think it would be more economical to have your window replaced, call a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are skilled in fixing and replacing windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other incidents. They can assist you in deciding whether it is more efficient to fix the problem quickly than a more extensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
It's not surprising that the window frame gets damaged. While some damage is cosmetic and can be repaired quickly, other issues like frames that are rotting are serious issues that must be addressed as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs or replacement costs.
Wood rot around the windows frames isn't just unsightly but can also trigger various issues including fungus, mold, and pests that could affect both your home's value and health. To remedy this issue take off any weatherstripping prior to cutting away the rotten wooden by using a chisel, or saw. After you have removed the damaged frame part you can buy a kit at a hardware shop or online that includes all of the tools and parts needed to replace it.
Another issue that is commonly encountered and needs to be addressed is the moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is crucial because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity that can cause the wood to expand and shrink when it absorbs or releases moisture. If wood cracks, it allows moisture into your home. This can be harmful to your house's structure, your possessions, and even your family's health.
Inability to open or close the window is another common issue that could have different causes. The problem may simply be due to a buildup of dirt or dust that makes it difficult for the sash to move, or the frame itself may have suffered some kind of structural damage that has affected its ability to properly open and close.
If your window frame exhibits obvious signs of damage following an event, it's an excellent idea to consult an expert. The damage could be so extensive that a complete replacement of the window is the only or most effective alternative. You may be able to submit a claim to your insurance company to pay the cost of repairs or replacements.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals provide the final layer of protection from moisture and air infiltration which can cause damage to windows. They also aid in maintaining an ideal temperature inside and help reduce energy costs. If you notice that your window seals aren't working or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is crucial to address the issue before it gets any worse.
The glass in your windows, whether they're single-paned or double-paned is held in place by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sunlight can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to pass through the panes. The window's enhanced insulation value can also be lost if it is filled with inert gases. This is the reason why windows with damaged seals will fog.
If you think that the seals on your windows are failing, it is best to adhere to the instructions for maintenance provided by the manufacturer. It might seem like a simple task however, it's something many homeowners overlook. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaner will prolong their lifespan and ensure that they remain in top condition.
A drafty feeling is one of the indicators that the window seal has failed especially on the cold winter days. This is due to the warm air in your home is being drawn out from the window by cold air outside. If you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than usual without any explanation the windows could allow in too much cold air.
Moisture between the windows' glass panes is another sign that your seals are failing. This moisture can be an elongated line of clear water or a perpetual haze that interferes with your view. The cause of moisture in glass is by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal fails. door and window doctor can be corrected by resealing using polyurethane to seal the inner aluminum spacer.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
The wood strips used to separate the panes of single-pane glass could be fake or real. Window repair experts can fix them if damaged. They will remove the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then replace any damaged or broken muntins or mullions. In many instances, this is a more cost-effective solution 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 problems are often overlooked. For instance, a crack in the drip cap (the piece made of steel that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture get into your home, which can lead to mold, rot, and even insect infestation. A damaged sash cable may also cause rattles and draughts when the windows are shut or opened.
A window that has a leak or that has caused draughts could be expensive to repair, especially when the water seeps into walls. Any leaks should be repaired promptly. Draughts can often be caused by the faulty hinges on old windows or because of poorly constructed windows that allow air through. Window & Doors Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is loosened cracking, rotting, cracked or completely missing, it will need to be replaced. This is not necessarily an undertaking for the amateur as the wall may be in disrepair and requires a new build as well. The casing that is loose is ugly but, more importantly it allows moisture and air to enter the home which can reduce energy efficiency. It is possible to replace it with primed wood exterior casing available at most home centers or low-maintenance vinyl PVC products. They are more resistant to weather than wood, which will require painting frequently to ensure the quality of the product. All replacement casings should be painted using exterior grade paint, irrespective of the material.