Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Repairs to windows and doors as well as maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing energy bills as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes in the COVID-19 epidemic to add value and improve their living conditions without having to relocate.
Repair any loose or rotting casing as soon as you can. These are typically a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired at little expense.
Broken or cracked glass
If your window's glass has cracked or shattered you're probably wondering if you can repair it or if you'll need to purchase a replacement. The answer will depend on a variety of aspects, such as the severity of the break and the cause, and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
In most cases, it is easier to repair a damaged window than to replace it. The key is to determine what caused the crack and then act swiftly to stop it from becoming worse. This is especially important with fractures from impact, such as an object from the lawn mower or an object thrown by children.
Before you can repair damaged or cracked windows You'll need to take out any pieces that are still in the frame or on the ground. This should be done while wearing heavy duty work gloves and a pair of protective eyewear. Utilize a chisel or a knife to gently remove any glazing that is holding the pieces in place.
Once you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean 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 because they can be extremely sharp. It is also recommended to secure off the area, close the door, and tell your family members not to enter until the broken glass has been cleaned.
Check the frame, muntins and mullions which support the glass pane. This is because corrosion and rust could cause damage to these parts and cause issues for the windows.
Replace the window if are concerned about long-term damage. Tempered glass is more durable than normal glass and breaks into tiny granular pieces which are less likely to cause injury than jagged shards of traditional glass.
If you're not confident in tackling the task yourself or if it will be more cost effective to replace your window, contact a professional window & door doctor to assist with repairs or replacement. Window & door doctors are adept at fixing or replacing doors and windows that have been damaged by vandalism, storms, or other events. They can help you decide whether a quick fix is better than a full replacement.
Frame Damaged
It's not surprising that windows frame is damaged. Some damages are cosmetic and can be repaired, however other damage such as damaged frames could be more severe and should be addressed immediately to avoid more expensive repairs or replacement.
The rotted wood around window frames can be unsightly and lead to many problems such as mold and fungus. These can affect your home's health and value. To remedy this issue remove any weatherstripping, before cutting away the rotten wooden with a chisel or a saw. Once you have removed the damaged part of the frame, make use of a kit sold online or at a hardware store that comes with all the tools and parts you require to repair it.
Another common issue that needs to be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is especially important since North Carolina often experiences high humidity levels, which could cause wood to expand and shrink as it absorbs and releases moisture. If wood cracks, it allows moisture into your home. This can be damaging to your house's structure as well as your possessions and even your family's health.
Another common issue is having difficulty opening or closing a window. This can be caused by several different factors. The problem may simply be due to a buildup of dust or dirt that makes it difficult for the sash to move or the frame might have suffered some form of structural damage that has affected its ability to open and close properly.
If your window frame exhibits obvious signs of damage following an incident, it's recommended to consult an expert. The damage could be so severe that a total replacement of your window could be the only or best alternative. Based on the policy of your insurance you might be able to file a claim to cover any repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
window doctors seals offer the final layer of protection against air and moisture which can cause damage to windows. They also aid in helping to maintain an ideal temperature inside and reduce energy costs. If you observe that your window seals aren't working or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is crucial to address the issue before it gets worse.
The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they are single-paned or double-paned is held together by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane that is sandwiched between the two panes. The constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sun can cause the material to break down in time, allowing humidity and air to pass through the panes. If the window contained inert gas, the increased insulation value will be lost as well. This is the primary reason why windows with broken seals will start to fog.
If you believe that the seals on your windows are failing it is recommended to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This might seem like a straightforward task but it's a step that many homeowners skip over. Cleaning your windows using the recommended cleaning agent will prolong their lifespan and ensure they are in good condition.
A few indications that the window seal has failed include a drafty feeling particularly on a cold winter day. The cold air outside is dragging warm air out of your window. If you notice that your energy costs are suddenly higher than normal without a reason the windows could be letting in too much cold air.
Moisture between the glass doctor near me panes of your windows is a further sign that your seals are failing. It could be thin lines of clear water or a permanent cloud that blocks your view. The condensation between the glass is a result of an infiltration gap caused by the window seal breaking and can be repaired by sealing the inner aluminum spacer with polyurethane.
Damaged Muntins or Mullions
The wood strips used to separate the panes of single-pane glass can be fake or real. Window repair experts can repair them if damaged. They will remove the glass, scrape and clean the area, and then replace any broken or rotted muntins or mullions. This is usually a cheaper alternative than replacing a complete window.
Often problems that are not obvious are often ignored. While damage to your frame may be evident from the force of rain or snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as obvious. A crack in the dripcap (the metal cap that is placed on top of the frame) can allow moisture into the home. This could lead to rot and mould. A damaged sash cable may also cause draughts or rattles when windows are closed or opened.
Repairing windows that leak or creates draughts is expensive, especially if water gets into the wall. It is important to have any leaks repaired when they are detected. Draughts are often caused by hinges that are not working properly in old windows or poorly designed windows that allow air in. Window & Door Doctor can fix leaks and draughts, without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window and door doctor near me is loose cracking, rotting, cracked or completely missing it must be replaced. This isn't a task that can be accomplished by a novice. The wall surrounding it may be in bad condition and should be repaired. It's not just ugly however, it also allows air and moisture to enter the home. This decreases the efficiency of the home. Home centers typically offer primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl products. These are more weather-resistant than wood, but they requires painting regularly to maintain the integrity of the product. All replacement casings must be painted using exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.