Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Window and door repair and maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing their energy costs as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to add value to their home and improve living conditions without having to move.
Repair any damaged or loose casing as soon as you can. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and are able to be repaired with minimal expense.
Cracked or broken glass
If your window glass is cracked or broken, you're probably wondering whether you can fix it or whether you need to buy a replacement. The answer will depend on a number of factors such as the severity of the crack and the type of glass you have in your window.
Most times cracked or damaged window can be repaired rather than replaced. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack, and then act quickly so that it doesn't get any worse. This is especially crucial in the case of break-ups from impact like those caused by a lawnmower or a child's ball.
Take out any pieces of the window that remain in its frame or on the floor. This is best done with sturdy work gloves and protective eyewear. Use a chisel or putty knife to remove any glaze that holds the pieces together.
After you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean the area and dispose of them appropriately. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling glass or mirror pieces because they can be extremely sharp. You can also cordon off an area, shut the door and tell your family members to not go into the room until the broken pieces of glass have been cleaned.
Examine the frame, muntins and mullions which support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by rust and corrosion, which could lead to further problems with the windows.
Replace the window if you are worried about the long-term effects. Tempered glass is more durable than ordinary glass and shatters into small granular chunks which are less likely to cause injury than jagged fragments of glass that are typical.
If you're not comfortable tackling the job yourself or if it will be more economical to replace your window, call a professional window and door doctor to assist you with repairs or replacement. Window and door specialists are adept at fixing or replacing windows and doors that are damaged from vandalism, storms, or other events. They can also help you choose between a quick fix or more extensive window replacement project.
Frame Damaged
It's not a surprise that the window frame gets damaged. While some damages are cosmetic and can be repaired easily, others such as rotted frames are serious issues that need to be addressed immediately to avoid more costly repairs or replacement costs.
The wood rot that is a part of the windows frames isn't just ugly, but it can also cause various issues including fungus, mold, and pests that can impact your home's value and health. To fix this issue start by removing all weatherstripping. Then, you can cut away the rotten wood using a saw or chisel. After you have removed the damaged frame portion, you can purchase a kit at a hardware shop or online that includes all of the required tools and components to replace it.
Another common issue that should be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels that can cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture to leak into your home, which could be damaging to the structure of your home and your belongings and even the health of your family.
Another issue that is common is difficulty opening or closing a window. This is caused by a variety of factors. The issue could be caused by a buildup of dirt or dust which makes it difficult for the frame or sash to move.
If you have any visible signs of damage to the frame of your window after an event, it's best to seek advice from an expert because the damage could be so severe that a complete replacement of the window is the best or only option. In accordance with your insurance policy you may be able to file an insurance claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are the final layer of protection from air and moisture infiltration, which can damage windows. They also aid in maintaining an ideal temperature inside and lower energy costs. If you find that your window seals are failing or you've noticed an increase in your energy bills, it's crucial to address the issue before it gets any worse.
The glass in your windows, whether they are single-paned or double-paned, is held together by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. The constant temperature fluctuations in Phoenix's sunshine can cause the material to break down in time, allowing humidity and air to enter the panes. The window's insulation value is also lost if it is filled with inert gases. windowdoctor is the primary reason why windows that has a leaky seal will begin to fog.
The best thing to do if you suspect that your window seals aren't working is to follow the manufacturer's care instructions. This may seem like a no-brainer however, it's something many homeowners skip over. Cleaning your windows regularly with whatever cleaning agent is suggested will prolong the life of your windows and keep them working at their peak.
Some signs that the window seal has failed include a drafty feeling, especially on an icy winter day. This is because the warm air inside your home is being pulled out from the window by cold air outside. If you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than usual without a reason the windows could allow in too much cold air.
Another sign that the seals on your windows are deteriorating is if you can see moisture between the glass of your windows. It could be a thin line of clear water or a perpetual cloud that blocks your view. The condensation between the glass is the result of an infiltration crack caused by the window seal failing and can be repaired by sealing the aluminum spacer inside with polyurethane.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
Muntins and mullions, the wood strips that separate panes of glass in single-pane windows, could be fake or real. Window repair experts can repair them if they're damaged. They will remove all the glass clean and scrape the area, before rebuilding any mullias or muntins that are damaged or rotted. This is usually a less expensive alternative than replacing a complete window.
Oft, the less obvious issues are often overlooked. While the frame's condition can be apparent from excessive rain, snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as obvious. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that is placed on top of the frame) could allow moisture to enter the home. This can lead to mould and rot. A damaged sash cable may also cause draughts or rattles when the windows are opened or closed.
Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot particularly if water seeps into the wall. It is essential to get any leaks repaired as soon as they are detected. Draughts are often caused by defective hinges in old windows or poorly designed windows that allow air in. Window & Door doctor can repair draughts and leaks without replacing the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is loosened or cracked, rotting, or is completely missing, it will need to be replaced. This is not an undertaking that can be completed by a non-professional. The surrounding wall may be in poor condition and should be repaired. Loose casing is unattractive however it allows air and moisture to infiltrate the home, which reduces energy efficiency. It can be replaced with primed wood exterior casing, found at many home centers, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. These are more weatherproof than wood and will not need to be painted as often to maintain the integrity. All replacement casings must be painted with exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.