Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors and maintenance benefit homeowners by reducing their energy bills, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 epidemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without the need to relocate.
Repair any damaged or loose casing as soon as you can. These are usually indications of moisture intrusion and can be fixed at a minimal cost.
Cracked or broken glass
You might be wondering if you can repair the crack or broken window glass or if you should replace it. The answer depends on many factors including the severity of the crack and the type of glass used in your window.
The majority times cracks or broken window can be repaired rather than replaced. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, and act promptly to prevent it from continuing to get any worse. This is particularly important for fractures from impact, such as an object from the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the children.
Before you can repair a broken or cracked window You'll need to take out any pieces that are still in the frame or lying on the ground. Wear gloves that are heavy duty, and wear protective eyewear. If there is any glaze holding the pieces in place, use a putty knife or chisel to gently release the pieces.
Once you have removed the glass shards tidy up the area and dispose of them in a proper way. 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 cordon off an area, shut the door and instruct your family members to not enter the room until the broken pieces of glass have been cleaned.
Examine the frame, muntins and mullions that support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust could cause damage to these parts which can cause further problems for the windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, look into replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and it breaks into smaller granular pieces that are less likely than shards that are jagged to cause injuries.
If you are not confident in tackling the job yourself, or it is more economical to have your window replaced contact a professional to help with repairs or replacement. Window and door specialists are experts in repairing or replacing doors and windows damaged by storms, vandalism, or other occurrences. They can also help you determine between a quick fix and more extensive window replacement.
Frame Damaged
The window frame goes through lots of wear and tear, so it's no surprise that it is damaged at times. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, but others like rotted frames can be serious and must be dealt with immediately to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
the window doctor around the window frames is not only unsightly but can also trigger many issues such as mold, fungus and pests that will impact your home's value as well as its health. To remedy this issue start by removing all weatherstripping, and then removing the rotten wood by using a chisel or a saw. Once you have removed the damaged section of the frame, you can use an online kit or in a hardware store that comes with all the equipment and parts you need to replace it.
Another issue that is commonly encountered and needs to be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which can cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. If the wood cracks, it allows moisture to seep into your home, which could cause harm to the structure of your home and your belongings and even the health of your family members.
Another common issue is the difficulty in opening or closing windows. This is caused by a variety of factors. It could be due to the accumulation of dirt or dust that makes it harder for the sash to move or the frame could have suffered some type of structural damage that has impacted 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 a good idea to consult with an expert, because the damage could be so severe that a complete window replacement would be the best option or only choice. You could be able 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 moisture and air infiltration, which can damage windows. They also help to maintain a comfortable temperature inside and reduce energy bills. So, if your window seal is starting to fail or you've noticed an abrupt increase in your energy costs it's essential to get the issue fixed immediately before it gets any worse.
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. As time passes, the constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sunlight can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to seep between the panes. The window's enhanced insulation value is also lost if it is filled with inert gases. This is the reason a window that has broken seals can become foggy.
If you think that the seals on your windows are failing you should follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This may seem like a no-brainer but it's a step that many homeowners skip over. Regularly wiping your windows down with the cleaning agent you have recommended will extend the lifespan of your windows and ensure they are operating at their best.
Some signs that the window seal is not working include a drafty sensation particularly on a cold winter day. The cold air outside is pulling warm air out of your window. If you notice that suddenly your energy bills are more expensive than normal, it could be because your windows are letting in more cold air.
The presence of water between the glass panes of your windows is another sign that your seals are not working. The moisture could be an elongated line of clear water or a long-lasting cloud that blocks your view. The cause of moisture in glass is by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal fails. This can be corrected by resealing the window with polyurethane. inner aluminum spacer.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and Mullions, the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single-pane windows, can be real or faux. If they're damaged, window repair experts are able to repair them. They will remove all glass clean and scrape off the area, then rebuild any mullias or muntins which are rotted or damaged. In many instances, this is a cheaper option than replacing the entire window.
Often problems that are not obvious are overlooked. While damage to your frame may be apparent from heavy rains, snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as evident. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that covers the top of the window frame) can allow moisture into the home. This could lead to rot and mould. A broken sash cord can also lead to draughts and rattles when the window is shut or opened.
Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot and can be costly, particularly if water is leaking into the wall. The leaks must be fixed promptly. Draughts are usually caused by faulty hinges in old windows or by poorly designed windows that let air in. Window & Doors Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is sagging, cracked, rotten, or missing, it's going to need to be replaced. This is not an undertaking that can be completed by a non-professional. The wall around it could be in poor condition and should be repaired. It's not just unappealing however, it also allows air and moisture to enter the home. This reduces energy efficiency. It is possible to replace it with pre-painted wood exterior casing found at many home centers or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. These are more resistant to weather than wood and do not require painting regularly to maintain the integrity. All replacement casings should be painted with exterior grade paint, regardless of the material.