Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Maintenance of windows and doors and repair benefit homeowners by lowering energy bills as well as increasing comfort and security. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to increase the value of their home and improve living conditions without the need to relocate.
Exterior casings that are loose or rotting should be repaired as soon as possible. These are typically signs of moisture intrusion and can be repaired at minimal cost.
Broken or cracked glass
You might be wondering whether you can repair your cracked or broken window glass or do you need to replace it. The answer will depend on a lot of factors, including the severity of the crack and the cause, and what type of glass is used in your windows.
Most times cracked or damaged window can be fixed instead of replacing it. The key is to determine the cause of the crack and quickly act so it doesn't worsen. This is particularly important when it comes to fractures caused by impact, such as those caused by lawnmowers or a child's ball.
Before you can take care of a broken or cracked window it is necessary to remove any fragments that remain 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 you can use a putty blade or chisel to gently release the pieces.
Once you have removed any glass shards Make sure you clean the area and dispose of them appropriately. Wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when dealing with glass or mirrors since they can be extremely sharp. It is also recommended to secure off the area, shut the door, and instruct your household members not to enter until the broken glass is cleaned up.
It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame as well as muntins or mullions that help support the glass pane. These components can be damaged by corrosion and rust, which could lead to further problems with the windows.
If you're worried about the long-term damage to your window, you should think about replacing the window with temperate glass. Tempered glass is more durable than regular glass and it can break into smaller pieces which are less likely to break than sharp shards of glass to cause injury.
If you're not comfortable tackling the task on your own, or if it will be more economical to replace your window, get in touch with a professional window & door doctor to help with repairs or replacement. Window and door specialists are experts in repairing or replacing doors and windows that are damaged from vandalism, storms or other occurrences. They can assist you in deciding whether an immediate fix is better than a larger window replacement.
Damaged Frame
It's not surprising that windows frame is damaged. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, while others such as rotted frames can be severe and should be addressed quickly to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
Wood rot around window frames can be unsightly and can cause a variety of problems, including fungus and mold. These can affect the health of your home and its value. To fix this issue begin by removing any weatherstripping and then cutting away the rotten wood by using a chisel or a saw. Once you've removed the damaged part of the frame, use a kit available online or at a hardware shop that comes with all the equipment and parts you require to repair it.
Moisture-related cracks in window frames are another frequent issue that should be addressed immediately. This is especially crucial since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels that could cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and 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 issue that is common is the difficulty in opening or closing the window. This could be caused by several different factors. The problem could be caused by a buildup in dirt or dust, which makes it difficult for the sash or frame to move.
If your window frame shows obvious signs of damage following an event, it's an excellent idea to consult an expert. The damage could be so severe that a total replacement of the window is the only or best option. You may be able to make a claim through your insurance company to cover the cost of repairs or replacements.
Seals that are damaged
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration, which can cause damage to windows. They also help to maintain the temperature of your home at a comfortable level and reducing energy bills. So, if the window doctor is starting to fail or you've noticed a sudden increase in your energy bill it's essential to get the issue fixed immediately before it gets any worse.
No matter if your windows are a double pane or single pane, the glass in them is held in place by an aluminum spacer as well as polyurethane, sandwiching the two panes of tempered or annealed glass. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sun can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to pass through the panes. If the window is made up of inert gas, its enhanced insulation value is also lost. This is the reason windows with broken seals can become foggy.
If you believe that the seals on your windows are failing it is recommended to follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This might seem like a straightforward task but it's a step that most homeowners ignore. Cleaning your windows with the recommended cleaner will prolong their lifespan and ensure they are in good condition.
A feeling of draftiness is a sign that the window seal has failed particularly on the cold winter days. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air out of your window. If you notice that suddenly your energy bills are higher than usual, it could be because your windows are letting in more cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are breaking down is if you notice water between the window's glass. It could be thin, clear lines or it could be a long-lasting fog that is blocking your view of the outdoors. The cause of moisture in glass is by an infiltration crack 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, could be real or fake. If they're damaged window repair experts are able to fix them. They will remove the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then rebuild any rotted or split muntins or mullions. In many instances this is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.
Oft, the less obvious issues are overlooked. While damage to your frame can be evident due to excessive rain, snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as apparent. For instance, a crack in the drip cap (the piece of metal that caps the top of the frame) can allow moisture get into your home, leading to mold, rot, and even insect infestation. A damaged sash cord could also lead to draughts and rattles when windows are shut or opened.
Repairing windows that leak or causes draughts can be costly, especially if water gets into the wall. Any leaks should be repaired as soon as is possible. Draughts can often be caused by defective hinges on old windows or by badly constructed windows that allow air through. Window & Door Doctor can repair draughts and leaks without the need to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loose, cracked, rotting or missing entirely the casing will need to be replaced. This isn't an easy task for a novice as the wall may be in disrepair and requires a new build as well. It's not just ugly however, it also allows air and moisture to get into the home. This decreases the efficiency of the home. It is possible to replace it with primed wood exterior casing, available at many home centers, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. They are more weatherproof than wood, and will not need to be painted as often to maintain the integrity. All replacement casings need to be painted using exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.