Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Window and door maintenance and repair can benefit homeowners by reducing energy costs while also increasing comfort and security. window doctor have renovated their homes in the COVID-19 pandemic in order to add value and improve their living conditions without the need to move.
The exterior casing that is loose or rotting must be repaired as quickly as possible. They are usually a sign of moisture penetration and can be fixed with little expense.
Broken or cracked glass
You might be wondering if you can fix your broken or cracked window glass or do you need to replace it. The answer will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the crack and the type of glass you have in your window.
In the majority of cases, it's simpler to repair a cracked window than to replace it. The trick is to figure out the cause of the crack and then act swiftly so it doesn't worsen. This is particularly important for cracks caused by impact, like an object from the lawn mower or a ball thrown by the kids.
Before you can take care of a cracked or broken window You'll need to take out any pieces that are still in the frame or lying on the ground. Wear heavy duty work gloves, and wear protective eyewear. If there is any glaze holding the pieces in place, use a putty knife or chisel, to gently break them.
After you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean up the area and dispose of them in a safe manner. Always wear gloves that are protected and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces, as they can be extremely sharp. You can also secure an area, shut the door, and inform your family members to not go into the room until the broken glass pieces have been cleaned.
It is also a good idea to check the condition of the frame as well as muntins and mullions that are used to support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust can cause damage to these components which can cause further problems for the windows.
If you're worried about long-term damage, think about replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is stronger than normal glass and breaks into tiny pieces of granular fragments that are less likely cause injury than sharp fragments of glass that are typical.
If you're not sure about tackling the task on your own or if it's more economical to replace your window, call a professional to assist with repairs or replacement. Window & Door Doctors are experts in repair and replacement of windows and doors damaged by vandalism, storms or other events. They can assist you in deciding whether it is more efficient to fix the problem quickly than a more extensive window replacement.
Damaged Frame
It's not surprising that windows frame gets damaged. While some damages are cosmetic and can be fixed quickly, other issues like rotted frames are serious issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs or replacement costs.
Wood rot on window frames can be unsightly and can cause a variety of problems such as mold and fungus. This can negatively impact your home's health and value. To fix this issue start by removing all weatherstripping and then cutting away the rotten wood using a saw or chisel. After removing the damaged frame part you can buy the kit at an online hardware store or a hardware store that comes with all the tools and parts needed to repair it.
Cracks caused by moisture in the window framing are another common issue that should be addressed as soon as is possible. This is particularly important because North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which can cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture into your home. This can be damaging to your house's structure or your belongings, and even your family's health.
The difficulty of opening or closing the window is another common problem that could have different reasons. The problem may simply be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt that makes it harder for the sash to move, or the frame itself might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to open and close properly.
If you see signs of damage to your window frame after an event, it's a good idea consult with an expert, as the damage may be severe enough that replacement of your window is the best or only option. You may be able to submit a claim to your insurance company to pay the cost of any repairs or replacements.
Damaged Seals
Window seals provide the final layer of protection from air and moisture infiltration which can cause damage to windows. They're also responsible for helping to maintain an ideal temperature inside and reduce energy costs. If you find that your window seals aren't working or you've noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is essential to fix the issue before it worsens.
The glass in your windows, whether they're single-paned or double-paned, is held together by an aluminum spacer and a polyurethane sandwiched between the two panes. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sunlight can cause the material to break down, allowing humidity and air to enter between the panes. If the window contained inert gas, its increased insulating value is lost as well. This is the main reason why a window that has a leaky seal will begin to fog.
The best thing to do when you suspect your window seals aren't working is to follow the manufacturer's care instructions. It may seem obvious, but many homeowners overlook this step. Regularly wiping your windows down using the cleaning agent suggested will prolong the lifespan of your windows and keep them functioning optimally.
A few indications that the window seal has failed include a drafty sensation, especially on an icy winter day. This is due to the warm air inside your home is being drawn out through the window by the cold air outside. If you notice that your energy bills are higher than usual It could be due to the fact that your windows are letting in more cold air.
Another indication that your window seals are failing is when you see water between the window's glass. The moisture could be an invisible, thin line or it could be a permanent haze interfering with your view of the outdoors. Moisture between the glass is the result of an infiltration breach caused by the window seal breaking and can be repaired by resealing the inner aluminum spacer with polyurethane.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
Muntins and Mullions, the wood strips that separate panes of glass in single-pane windows, may 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 replace any rotted or split muntins or mullions. This is usually a less expensive option than replacing the entire window.
Oft problems that are not obvious are often overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from heavy rains, snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as apparent. For instance, a crack in the drip cap (the piece made of steel that covers the top of the frame) can allow moisture enter the home, which can lead to mold, rot, and even an infestation of insects. A damaged sash cable may also cause rattles or draughts when the windows are shut or opened.
Repairing windows that leak or creates draughts is expensive, especially if water gets into the wall. It is essential to get any leaks repaired when they are detected. Draughts are often caused by defective hinges on old windows or because of poorly designed windows that are letting air in. Window & Doors Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without replacing the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loosened cracking, rotting, cracked or is completely missing the casing will need to be replaced. This isn't a job for an amateur because the wall could be in a state of disrepair and require a complete reconstruction as well. The casing that is loose is ugly however it allows air and moisture to enter the home which can reduce energy efficiency. Most home centers offer primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. These are more weatherproof than wood and do not require painting frequently to maintain their integrity. No matter the material, all replacement casing should be treated with an exterior-grade paint.