Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Window and door maintenance and repair benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs, increasing comfort, and security. Many homeowners have renovated their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance their living conditions without the need to move.
Repair any rotting or loose casing as soon as you can. These are typically a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired at minimal cost.
Cracked or broken glass
If your window's glass is cracked or broken, you're probably wondering whether you can fix it or if you'll need to buy a replacement. The answer will depend on many factors, such as the severity of the damage and the cause, and the type of glass that is used in your windows.
Most of the time, a cracked or broken window can be repaired rather than replaced. The trick is to pinpoint the cause of the crack and then act swiftly to stop it from becoming worse. This is particularly crucial with fractures from impact, such as a rock thrown by the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the children.
Remove any pieces of the window that remain in its frame or on the floor. Wear gloves made for heavy-duty work and wear protective eyewear. If there is any glass that is holding the pieces together you can use a putty blade or chisel to gently remove the pieces.
Once you have removed the glass shards tidy up the area and dispose of them in a safe manner. Always wear protective gloves and closed-toe shoes when dealing with mirrors or glass pieces as they are extremely sharp. You can also create a cordon around an area, close the door and tell your family members to not enter the room until broken pieces of glass have been cleaned.
Make sure to inspect the frame, multins and mullions that support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by rust and corrosion which can cause further problems with the windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, look into replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more robust than regular glass, and it breaks into smaller pieces which are less likely to break than sharp shards of glass to cause injuries.
If you're not sure if you're able to tackle the task on your own, or if it will be more cost effective to replace your window, contact an experienced window and door doctor to assist you with repairs or replacement. Window and Door Doctors are experts in repairing and replacing windows and doors damaged by storms, vandalism or other accidents. They can assist you in deciding whether a quick fix is better than a full replacement.
Frame Damaged
The window frame endures lots of wear and tear, so it's not a surprise that it is damaged at times. Some damages are cosmetic and can be easily repaired, however other damage such as rotted frames can be serious and need to be addressed immediately to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
The rotting of wood around window frames is not just unsightly but can also lead to many issues like mold, fungus and pests that can affect both your home's value as well as its health. To remedy this issue, remove any weatherstripping before cutting off the rotten wood with a chisel or a saw. Once you have removed the damaged section of the frame, you can use a kit available online or at a hardware shop that comes with all the tools and components that you need to repair it.
Another common issue that should be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is important because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which can cause the wood to expand and expand as it absorbs and releases moisture. When the wood cracks, it allows moisture to leak into your home, which can cause harm to the structure of your home as well as your possessions and even the health of your family.
The difficulty of opening or closing the window is another common issue that could have different reasons. The issue could be due to a buildup of dirt or dust which makes it more difficult for the sash to move, or the frame itself might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to properly open and close.
If you see signs of damage to your window frame after a storm, then it's a good idea seek advice from an expert because the damage could be so severe that a complete replacement of your window is the best or only option. In accordance with your insurance policy you may be able to file an insurance claim to cover any repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration, which can damage windows. They're also responsible for helping to keep the temperature of your home at a comfortable level and reducing energy bills. If you find that your window seals are failing or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is crucial to address the issue before it worsens.
If your windows are double pane or single pane, the glass inside them is held by an aluminum spacer as well as polyurethane that sandwiched the two panes of annealed or tempered glass. The constant temperature fluctuations in Phoenix's sunshine can cause the material to break down over time, allowing air and humidity to seep through the panes. If the window contained inert gas, its enhanced insulating value is lost as well. window doctors is the primary reason why a window with broken seals will start to fog.
If you suspect that the window seals on your windows are failing it is recommended to adhere to the instructions for maintenance provided by the manufacturer. It may seem obvious however, many homeowners neglect this step. Cleaning your windows regularly with the cleaning agent you have recommended will extend the lifespan of your windows and ensure they are functioning optimally.
A drafty feeling is one of the signs that your window seal has failed particularly on an icy winter day. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air from your window. If you notice that your energy bills are suddenly higher than normal without a reason the windows could be letting in too much cold air.
Another indication that the seals on your windows are breaking down is if you notice moisture in the glass of your windows. It could be an invisible, thin line or it could be a long-lasting haze interfering with your view of the outside. The moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration breach that occurs when the window seal is damaged. This can be corrected by resealing the window with polyurethane. inner aluminum spacer.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
The wood strips used to separate the panes of single-pane glass can be real or fake. If they're damaged window repair experts are able to fix them. They will remove all glass clean and scrape the area, before rebuilding any muntins or mullias that are rotted or damaged. This is usually a cheaper alternative than replacing a complete window.
Sometimes, the less obvious issues are often overlooked. While damage to your frame can be evident due to heavy rains, snow melt, or humidity, other issues might not be as evident. For example, a crack in the drip cap (the piece made of steel that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture enter the home, leading to rot, mould and even insect infestation. A sash cord that is damaged can also lead to draughts and rattles when windows are opened or closed.
Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot, especially if water gets into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks fixed when they are discovered. Draughts are often caused by hinges that are not working properly in old windows or poorly designed windows that let air in. Window & Door doctor is able to fix leaks and draughts, without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loosened, cracked, rotting or missing entirely, it will need to be replaced. This is not necessarily a job for an amateur as the wall may be in disrepair and requires a new build also. The casing that is loose is ugly but, more importantly, it allows air and moisture to enter the home which can reduce energy efficiency. Most home centers sell primed wood exterior casings or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. These are more resistant to weather than wood, and will not need to be painted as often to maintain the integrity. All replacement casings should be painted using exterior grade paint, irrespective of the material.