Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Maintenance of windows and doors and repair can benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs while also increasing comfort and security. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic to add value and improve their living conditions without having to move.
Loose or rotting exterior casing should be repaired as soon as possible. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and can be repaired with minimal expense.
Cracked or broken glass
You might be wondering whether you can fix your broken or cracked window glass or if you should replace it. The answer will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of the crack and the cause and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
In most cases, it is easier to repair a damaged window than replace it. It is crucial to identify the cause of the crack and take action promptly to prevent it from continuing to get any worse. This is particularly crucial with cracks caused by impact, like an object from the lawn mower or an object thrown by kids.
Remove any window pieces that are still within its frame or lying on the floor. This is done while wearing heavy duty work gloves and protective eyewear. Use a chisel or putty knife to gently remove any glazing that is holding the pieces in place.
After you have removed the glass shards tidy up 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. It is also an excellent idea to fence off the area, shut the door, and tell your household members not to be allowed to enter until the broken glass has been cleaned.
It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame as well as muntins or mullions that support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by corrosion and rust and could cause more issues with the windows.
Replace the window if you are worried about the long-term effects. Tempered glass is stronger than ordinary glass and shatters into tiny pieces of granular fragments that are less likely cause injury than sharp shards of traditional glass.
If you are not confident enough to tackle the task yourself or you think it would be more cost-effective to have your window replaced, call a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are skilled in repair and replacement of windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other events. They can also help you determine between a quick fix or a more comprehensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
It's not surprising that the window frame gets damaged. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, however other damage such as damaged frames may be more 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 only unsightly but can also cause a wide range of problems like mold, fungus and pests that will affect the value of your home and its health. To fix this problem take off any weatherstripping prior to cutting off the rotten wood with a chisel or a saw. Once you've removed the damaged section of the frame, make use of an online kit or at a hardware shop that comes with all the tools and components you need to replace it.
Another common issue that must be addressed is cracks caused by moisture on the window frames. This is particularly important because North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels that could cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture into your home. This can be harmful to your house's structure as well as your possessions and even your family's health.
Difficulty opening or closing the window is a common issue that can have several different reasons. 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 might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to open and close properly.
If you see indications of damage to your window frame following an event, it's a good idea consult an expert because the damage could be so severe that a complete replacement of your window is the best option or only choice. Based on the policy of your insurance, you may be eligible to file a claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration that could damage windows. They also help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside and reduce energy bills. If you find that your window seals aren't working or you've noticed an increase in your energy bills, it's crucial to address the issue before it worsens.
The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they are double-paned or single-paned, is held together by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. The constant temperature fluctuations in Phoenix's sunshine can cause the material to break down over time, allowing air and humidity to enter the panes. If the window was made of inert gas, its increased insulating value is lost too. This is the main reason why a window with broken seals will start to become smudged.
If you suspect that the window seals on your windows aren't working it is recommended to follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. It might seem like a straightforward task, but it's something that many homeowners overlook. Cleaning your windows regularly with the cleaning agent you have suggested will prolong the life of your windows and keep them functioning optimally.
Some signs that the window seal has failed include a drafty sensation, especially on an icy winter day. This is due to the warm air inside your home is being pulled out through the window by the cold air outside. If you notice that suddenly your energy bills are more expensive than usual it could be because your windows let in more cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are deteriorating is if you can see moisture in the windows' glass. It could be thin, clear lines or it could be a permanent cloud that blocks your view of the outdoors. Moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal fails. This can be repaired by resealing using polyurethane to seal the inner aluminum spacer.
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 damaged. They will take the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then replace any rotted or split muntins or mullions. In many cases this is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.
Sometimes the more obscure issues are often overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from excessive rain or snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as apparent. A crack in the dripcap (the cap made of metal that is placed on top of the frame) could allow moisture to enter the home. This can cause mould and rot. A sash cord that is damaged can cause draughts and rattles when windows are shut or opened.
window doctors leaking window or one that has caused draughts could be costly to repair, especially when the water seeps into the wall. It is important to have any leaks fixed as soon as they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges on old windows or because of poorly constructed windows that allow air in. Window and Door Doctor can repair draughts and leaks without replacing the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is damaged, loose, damaged, cracked, or missing, it's going to need to be replaced. This is not a job that can be completed by an amateur. The wall around it could be in poor condition and may require to be rebuilt. Loose casing is unattractive but, more importantly it allows air and moisture to infiltrate the home which decreases the efficiency of energy. Most home centers offer primed wood exterior casings or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. They are more resistant to weather than wood, but they will require painting regularly to maintain the quality of the product. No matter the material, any replacement casings must be painted with a high-quality exterior paint.