Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Window and door repair and maintenance benefits homeowners by reducing their energy costs as well as increasing security and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic to add value and improve their living conditions without the need to relocate.
Exterior casings that are loose or rotting should be repaired as soon as possible. They are usually a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired with little expense.
the window doctor or cracked glass
If your window glass has broken or cracked you're probably wondering if you can fix it or if you'll need to purchase a replacement. The answer is contingent on a variety of factors, such as the severity of the damage and the cause and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
In most cases, it's simpler to repair a cracked window than to replace it. It's important to identify the cause of the crack, and act promptly to prevent it from continuing to become worse. This is especially crucial when it comes to fractures caused by impact, such as those caused by a lawnmower or a ball for children.
Take out any pieces of the window that are still within its frame or on the floor. This should be done while wearing heavy duty work gloves and protective eyewear. Use a chisel or putty knife to gently remove any glazing that holds the pieces in place.
After you have removed the glass shards take care to clean the area and dispose of them in a responsible way. Always wear protective gloves and closed-toe shoes when handling mirror or glass pieces because they can be extremely sharp. You can also cordon off an area, shut the door and instruct your family members to not go into the room until the broken pieces of glass have been cleaned.
It is also a good idea to check the condition of the frame and muntins or mullions that are used to support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by corrosion and rust which can cause further problems with the windows.
If you're concerned about long-term damage to your window, you should consider replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is stronger than normal glass and breaks into small granular chunks which are less likely to cause injury than sharp fragments of glass that are typical.
If you're not confident in tackling the task yourself or if it would be more economical to replace your window, contact a professional window and door doctor to assist with repairs or replacement. Window & door doctors are skilled at repairing or replacing windows and doors that are damaged from storms, vandalism, or other occurrences. They can assist you in deciding whether an immediate fix is better than a more extensive window replacement.
Frame Damaged
It's not surprising that windows frame is damaged. Some damage is cosmetic and easily repaired, however other damage such as damaged frames could be more serious and need to be dealt with immediately to avoid costly repairs or replacement.
Wood rot around the window frames is not only unattractive, but it can also lead to a wide range of problems like mold, fungus and pests that can affect your home's value and health. To remedy this issue, start by removing any weatherstripping. Then, you can cut away the decayed wood with a chisel or saw. After you have removed the damaged part of the frame, use an online kit or at a hardware shop that includes all the equipment and parts you need to replace it.
Another common issue that should be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is crucial because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity that can cause the wood to expand and contract as it absorbs and releases moisture. If the wood cracks, it allows moisture to leak into your home, which could cause damage to the structure of your home and your belongings and even the health of your family members.
Another common problem is the difficulty in opening or closing a window. This is caused by a variety of factors. The issue could be caused by a buildup in dirt or dust that causes the frame or sash to move.
If you notice evidence of damage to the frame of your window after an incident, it's best to consult with an expert, since the damage could be severe enough that replacement of your window is the best or only option. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be eligible to file an insurance claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Damaged Seals
Window seals are the last layer of protection from air and moisture infiltration, which can damage windows. They also aid in maintaining the temperature in the room and lower energy costs. If you notice that your window seals are failing or if you have noticed an increase in your energy bills, it is important to fix the problem before it worsens.
The glass in your windows, whether they are double-paned or single-paned is held together by a spacer made of aluminum and a polyurethane that is sandwiched between the two panes. In time, the cycle of temperature in the Phoenix sunshine can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to enter between the panes. The window's enhanced insulation value is also lost if it contained inert gases. This is the reason windows with broken seals will fog.
The best thing to do if you suspect that the window seals on your home are failing is to follow the manufacturer's care instructions. It might seem like a straightforward task however, it's something most homeowners ignore. Regularly wiping your windows down using the cleaning agent suggested will prolong the life of your windows and ensure they are functioning optimally.
A drafty feeling is one of the signs that the window seal has failed, especially during a cold winter's day. The cold air outside is pulling the warm air from your window. Similarly, if you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than normal without an explanation, your windows may be letting in too much cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are failing is if you notice moisture between the glass of your windows. The moisture could be a thin line of clear water or a long-lasting haze that blocks your view. Moisture between the glass is a result of an infiltration gap caused by the window seal breaking, and it can usually be repaired by resealing the inner aluminum spacer with polyurethane.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
Muntins and mullions, the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single-pane windows, could be real or faux. Window repair experts can fix them if damaged. They will take the glass, scrape and clean the area, and then replace any broken or rotted muntins or mullions. This is usually a less expensive solution than replacing an entire window.
While the damage to your window frame from heavy rain, snow melt or humidity is obvious, less obvious issues are sometimes overlooked. A crack in the dripcap (the cap made of metal that is placed on top of the frame) could allow moisture into the home. This can lead to mould and rot. A damaged sash cord could cause draughts and rattles when the window is opened or closed.
Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can cost a lot particularly if water seeps into the wall. It is crucial to get any leaks repaired immediately after they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by hinges that are not working properly in old windows or poorly designed windows that let air through. Window & Door doctor is able to repair draughts and leaks without having to replace the entire window.
If the casing that surrounds your window is loosened or cracked, rotting, or missing entirely the casing will need to be replaced. This isn't a task that can be done by an amateur. The wall around it could be in bad condition and may require to be rebuilt. Casings that are loose are ugly however, it allows air and moisture to infiltrate the home which can reduce energy efficiency. The majority of home centers sell primed wood exterior casings, or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl products. They are more weatherproof than wood and do not require painting as often to maintain the integrity. All replacement casings must be painted using exterior quality paint, regardless of the material.