Why Homeowners Should Consider Window Repairs Instead of Replacement
Some homeowners believe that replacing old windows is the best solution to window problems. However, in some instances, it is more beneficial for them to repair the windows. Here are a few things to think about:
A professional can repair single-pane windows that have cracked glass by using the two-part epoxy method. They can also replace damaged muntins or mullions, and add a drip-cap to prevent moisture from getting into a building.
Cracked or broken panes
If your window is cracked or broken, it's important to fix it immediately before it gets worse and potentially shatters. This will stop bugs and cold air from entering your home. It will also reduce your energy bills by keeping heat in during winter and out during summer.
There are different methods to repair cracks based on the kind of crack. The most effective solution will be tailored to meet your needs and your specific situation.
A small scratch caused by a baseball hitting your window can be repaired with tape. A stress crack that slowly spreads over time however, could require more drastic measures to stabilize it.
Filling in the cracks using a clear glue like Loctite Glass glue or super glue is a popular method to repair a damaged piece of glass. This makes it less noticeable than taping the glass, but it will not hide the cracks.
Another alternative to think about is a
window repair film that can be cut to size and then applied to the surface of a pane to secure and seal it. This is a step up from tape will provide more durability and stop cracks from causing more damage. However, it will reveal a visible crack through the glass.
A more permanent option is to hire a professional to melt the glass sheets together in a process called glass melting. This is a more complex process that requires a specialized glass furnace and is not something that homeowners are able to do themselves.
Triple-pane and double-pane windows typically have gas injected between the two panes of glass to provide insulation. This gas is better at keeping heat in place than air and can help keep your home warm in the winter. Gas can escape from a damaged double- or triple-paned windows, causing your home to be very drafty. A replacement of the sealed unit is required if this happens.
Rotten Wood
Wood rot is a serious and costly issue. Rotten wood could cause structural issues to your home if not taken care of promptly. Checking windowsills door frames, window sills and other areas for signs of rot is important. Paint can mask the early stages of rot, but a quick poke with the tip of an screwdriver will show whether or the wood is in good condition. If it's brittle, it's likely rotted.
The first step to do if you suspect that you have rot is to determine the fungus. Dry rot is typically caused by a specific fungus species that thrives in damp environments. The spores land on the surface of wood, and they begin to grow and consume it. Look for a cottony texture or brittle strands. You may also see dust that is red from the spores. The fungus can produce mushroom-like growths at the end of its stages.
Wet rot is caused by condensation or water infiltration, or design flaws that lead to damp conditions. This fungus attacks wood, particularly those in non-cavity wall, and can spread quickly through cracks and joints that are not sealed. The most common areas to find wet mold are roofs, cellars, and timbers within walls that are not ventilated properly.
Once the fungus is present, it is important to remove the wood as quickly as possible. Treat nearby timbers and masonry using a preventative preserver. A good alternative is borate wood preservatives. A borate treatment penetrates into the wood, reducing the chance of decay in the future.
Replacing a window frame, porch column, door, or other wood item that's damaged by rot could cost a lot. But, there are ways to fix wood that has been damaged with less expense than replacing it altogether. If a section of the standard door or frame is rotten you can fix it using epoxy wood hardener. Typically, this solution is a fast and efficient option. When sliding doors are involved, though, the process can take longer, and it's best to hire an experienced carpenter to do this kind of job. It may be better to choose a special epoxy that is able to stand up to the high moisture content in sliding doors and their tracks.
Water Damage
When the wood in the frame of a window is damaged, water can begin to seep inside. This can lead to many issues, ranging from mildew to rot. It is important to repair any water damage as soon as you can to ensure it doesn't become worse.
Leaks in a window frame can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty installation and drainage issues. If the leak is located in the region where the sash and jamb meet, it could be an indication that the window was not properly installed or that the flashing was not placed correctly. If the leak is located at the bottom of the frame, it may be due to clogged drainage holes. These holes are located close to the bottom of the frame and can be cleaned with a small wire made of metal to get rid of any debris.
Sealant and caulk that has been damaged can cause leaks around the windows. Over time the sealant that joins the frame of the window will wear down and allow air through which reduces the energy efficiency of your home. This is also a frequent culprit for leaks around the sill, which can cause wood to decay and the growth of mold.
The damage caused by water is usually obvious, from large crevices that are visible to the naked eye in the wood to cracks in the paint. Water stains are evident, since they turn the wood a dark, brown color and make it soft to the touch. If untreated, a window with severe water damage can eventually begin to rot leaving a gap in the wall, where the decaying wood has damaged the integrity of the structure.
A professional in window repair will assess the situation and suggest the best way to proceed. If the damage is minor the repair process is quite simple. The first step is to wash the window with mild soap and water, and dry it completely. The affected area can then be primed with wood epoxy primer. It's a chemical with two parts that is mixed on a disposable surface like a paper plate before being applied to the affected area. To ensure proper mixing, it's important to carefully follow the instructions on the label.
Customized Solutions
Professional window repair services can design window repair solutions to meet your requirements, whether you have vintage wood windows with one pane or energy-efficient double-hung vinyl windows, or any other window design. This lets you preserve the architectural style of your home historic character, historical significance, and unique design while addressing any structural problems.
In addition to improving the appearance of your house, professional
window repairs will also protect your home's value. Clean, well-maintained homes with functional Windows are always sought-after by potential buyers. A well-functioning Windows can also boost the value of your home through increasing the efficiency of your energy usage.
You can be confident that your window repairs will be made correctly the first time around. You will not have to pay additional costs in the future because of an incorrect installation or defective repair. Additionally, reputable repair companies provide warranties on their work, which means that they will stand behind their work in the event that something goes wrong in the future.
Professional window repair services are efficient and
window repairs timely. This means that your daily routine is not interrupted.