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 renovated their homes to add value to their home and improve living conditions without having to move.
The exterior casing that is loose or rotting must be repaired as quickly as possible. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and can be fixed at a minimal cost.
Broken or cracked glass
If your window glass has cracked or shattered, you're probably wondering whether you can repair it or if you'll need to purchase a replacement. The answer depends on many factors such as the severity of the crack and the type of glass used in your window.
In the majority of cases, it's simpler to repair a cracked window than replace it. It is crucial to determine what caused the crack and take action quickly so that it doesn't get worse. This is particularly crucial with fractures from impact, such as an object from the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the kids.
Remove any windowsills that are still within its frame or lying on the floor. This should be done while wearing heavy duty work gloves and protective eyewear. Use a chisel, or a knife to remove any glaze that holds the pieces in place.
After you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean the area and dispose of them properly. Wear gloves and closed-toe shoes whenever you are handling glass or mirrors, since they can be extremely sharp. It is also an excellent idea to fence off the area, close the door, and tell your household members not to be allowed to enter until the broken glass is cleaned up.
Make sure to inspect the frame, multins and mullions that hold the glass pane. These components could be damaged by rust and corrosion and could cause further problems with the windows.
Replace the window if are concerned about long-term damage. 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 sure about tackling the task yourself, or it is more cost-effective to replace your window contact a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window and Door Doctors are experts at repair and replacement of windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other accidents. They can also help you choose between a quick fix and a more extensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
The window frame endures lots of wear and tear, so it's no surprise that it is damaged from time to time. While some of the damage is cosmetic and can be corrected easily, others like frames that are rotting are serious issues which must be dealt with immediately to prevent more extensive repairs or replacement costs.
Wood rot around the window frames is not only ugly, but it can also cause various issues like mold, fungus and pests that can affect both your home's value as well as its health. To fix this issue, start by removing any weatherstripping. Then, you can cut away the wood that is decaying by using a chisel or a saw. Once you've removed the damaged portion of the frame, use an online kit or at a hardware store that includes all the tools and components that you need to replace it.
Another issue that is commonly encountered and should be addressed is cracks caused by moisture on the window frames. This is important because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which could cause the wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs or releases moisture. When the wood cracks, it allows moisture to leak into your home, which could be damaging to the structure of your home as well as your possessions and even the health of your family members.
Another common issue is the difficulty in opening or closing the window. This could be caused by a variety of factors. The problem may simply be due to the accumulation of dirt or dust that makes it harder for the sash to move, or the frame itself could have suffered some type of structural damage that has impacted its ability to open and close properly.
If you see signs of damage to your window frame following a storm, then it's a good idea seek advice from an expert since the damage could be severe enough that replacement of the window is the best option or only choice. You might be able to file a claim with your insurance company to pay the cost of repairs or replacements.
Damaged Seals
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration, which could damage windows. the window doctor aid in helping to keep a comfortable indoor temperature and reducing energy bills. So, if your window seal is starting to fail or you've noticed a sudden increase in your energy costs it's essential to get the issue fixed immediately before it gets worse.
No matter if your windows are a single or double pane, the glass in them is held in place by an inner aluminum spacer and polyurethane, sandwiching the two panes of tempered or annealed glass. The constant temperature fluctuations in the sun of Phoenix can cause the glass to degrade in time, allowing air and humidity to enter the panes. The window's enhanced insulation value is also diminished if it contains inert gases. This is the reason why a window that has broken seals can become foggy.
If you believe that the seals on your windows are failing, it is best to follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. It might seem obvious, however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows regularly using the cleaning agent recommended will extend the lifespan of your windows and keep them working at their peak.
The signs that the window seal is not working include a drafty sensation particularly on the cold winter days. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air from your window. If you notice that your energy bills are suddenly higher than usual without a reason the windows could let in too much cold air.
The presence of moisture between the glass panes of your windows is another sign that your seals aren't working. It could be thin lines of clear water or a long-lasting haze that interferes with your view. The condensation between the glass is the result of an infiltration crack caused by the window seal failing and can be fixed by sealing the aluminum spacer inside with polyurethane.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and mullions, the wood strips that separate panes of glass in single pane windows, could be real or fake. If they're damaged, window repair experts can usually fix them. They will take out all the glass clean and scrape the area, then rebuild any mullias or muntins that are rotted or damaged. This is often a cheaper alternative than replacing a complete window.
Oft problems that are not obvious are overlooked. While damage to your frame can be evident due to heavy rains snow melt, humidity, other issues may not be as evident. For instance, a crack in the drip cap (the piece of metal that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture get into your home, leading to mould, rot and even an infestation of insects. A damaged sash cord could cause draughts and rattles when windows are opened or closed.
Repairing windows that leak or causes draughts can cost a lot and can be costly, particularly if water is leaking into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks repaired when they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by defective hinges in old windows or by poorly designed windows that allow air through. Window & Doors Doctor can repair draughts and leaks without the need to replace the entire window.
If the casing surrounding your window is sagging, cracked, rotten, or missing, it will have to be replaced. This is not necessarily an undertaking for the amateur because the wall may be in disrepair and need to be rebuilt too. It's not just unappealing however, it also allows air and moisture to enter the house. This reduces energy efficiency. Home centers typically sell primed wood exterior casing or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. They are more weatherproof than wood and will not require painting frequently to maintain their integrity. All replacement casings should be painted with exterior grade paint, regardless of the material.