Should You Call a Window and Door Doctor?
Window and door repair and maintenance can benefit homeowners by reducing energy bills, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have been renovating their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic to increase their value and improve their living conditions without the need to relocate.
Loose or rotting exterior casing must be repaired as quickly as possible. These are usually indications of moisture intrusion, and can be repaired with minimal expense.
Cracked or broken glass
You might be wondering if it is possible to repair your cracked or broken window glass or if you should replace it. The answer will depend on many factors, such as the severity of the break and the cause and what kind of glass is used in your windows.
Most of the time, a cracked or broken window can be repaired rather than replaced. The key is to pinpoint what caused the crack and quickly act so it doesn't worsen. This is especially important with impact breaks, such as an object from the lawn mower or an object thrown by children.
Before you can fix a broken or cracked window You'll need to take out any pieces that are still in the frame or on the ground. Wear gloves that are heavy duty and wear eye protection. Use a chisel or putty knife to gently remove any glazing that holds the pieces in place.
Once you have removed any shards of glass Make sure you clean up the area and dispose of them appropriately. Always wear gloves that are protected 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 inform your household members not to enter until the broken glass is cleaned.
It's also an excellent idea to examine the condition of the frame and muntins or mullions that help support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by corrosion and rust, which could lead to more issues with the windows.
Replace the window if you are concerned about long-term damage. Tempered glass is more durable than ordinary glass and shatters into tiny granular pieces that are less likely to cause injury than jagged fragments of glass that are typical.
If you're not confident in tackling the task yourself, or if it will be more economical to replace your window, call a professional window & door doctor to assist you with repairs or replacement. Window and door specialists are skilled at repairing or replacing windows and doors that have been damaged by storms, vandalism, or other incidents. They can assist you in deciding whether it is more efficient to fix the problem quickly than a full replacement.
Frame Damaged
It's not surprising that the window frame gets damaged. While some damage is cosmetic and can be repaired easily, others like frames that are rotting are serious issues that need to be addressed immediately to avoid costly repairs or replacement costs.
The wood rot that is a part of the windows frames isn't just unsightly but can also lead to a wide range of problems such as mold, fungus and pests that will affect both your home's value as well as its health. To remedy this issue, remove any weatherstripping before cutting away the rotten wooden with a chisel or a saw. After you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, you can use a kit available online or in a hardware store that includes all the tools and parts you need to repair it.
Another common issue that should be addressed is moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is essential because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which could cause the wood to expand and expand as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture into your home. This could be detrimental to the structure of your home, your possessions, and even your family's health.
Difficulty opening or closing the window is a different problem that could have different reasons. The problem could be caused by a buildup of dust or dirt that creates a problem for the sash or frame to move.
If you notice signs of damage to your window frame following a storm, then it's a good idea seek advice from an expert because the damage could be severe enough that full replacement of your window is the best or only option. In accordance with your insurance policy you may be able to file a claim to cover repair or replacement costs.
Seals that have been damaged
Window seals provide the final layer of protection against air and moisture infiltration that could damage windows. They're also responsible for helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce energy costs. 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.
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 sandwiched between the two panes. As time passes, the constant temperature fluctuations in the Phoenix sunlight can cause the material to break down, allowing humidity and air to seep between the panes. The window's enhanced insulation value can also be lost if it is filled with inert gases. This is the reason why windows with broken seals will fog.
If you think that the seals on your windows are failing you should follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. It may seem obvious, however, many homeowners neglect this step. Regularly wiping windowdoctor down with the cleaning agent you have recommended will extend the lifespan of your windows and keep them operating at their best.
A drafty feeling is one of the signs that the window seal has failed, especially during the cold winter days. The cold air outside is dragging warm air out of your window. Also, if you notice that your electricity bills are suddenly higher than normal without any explanation Your windows could be letting in too much cold air.
Another sign that your window seals are deteriorating is if you notice water between the window's glass. It could be a thin, clear line or it could be a constant fog that is blocking your view of the outside. Moisture between glass is caused by an infiltration gap that occurs when the window seal is damaged. This can be repaired by resealing with polyurethane the inner aluminum spacer.
Muntins and Mullions Damaged
Muntins and mullions, the strips of wood that separate panes of glass in single pane windows, could be real or fake. If they're damaged window repair experts will usually repair them. They will remove all glass clean and scrape off the area, before rebuilding any muntins or mullias that are rotted or damaged. In many cases, this is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.
While the damage to your window's frame from heavy rain snow melt or humidity may be obvious, the less obvious problems are often overlooked. For instance, a crack in the drip cap (the piece of metal that caps the top of the frame) can allow moisture to enter the home, causing mold, rot, and insect infestation. A sash cord that is damaged can cause draughts and rattles when the window is opened or closed.
A window that has a leak or that is causing draughts can be costly to repair particularly when the water seeps into the wall. The leaks must be fixed as soon as is possible. Draughts are usually caused by faulty hinges in old windows, or poorly designed windows that allow air through. Window & Door Doctor can repair leaks and draughts without the need to replace the entire window.
If the casing around your window is loose or cracked, rotten or missing, it's going to need to be replaced. This is not a job that can be done by a non-professional. The surrounding wall may be in bad shape and should be repaired. It's not just unappealing but also allows air and moisture to enter the home. This can reduce energy efficiency. It can be replaced with primed wood exterior casing, available at most home centers, or low-maintenance vinyl or PVC products. They are more resistant to weather than wood, and will need to be repainted frequently to preserve the integrity of the product. Regardless of the material, any replacement casings should be treated with an exterior-grade paint.