Twenty Myths About Window Repair: Busted Window Repairs

Window repairs can save homeowners money and make their homes comfortable. Window replacements may be required in the event of severe damage, such as broken glass or a shattered window frame.

But there are many other issues that can be repaired to extend the life of your windows. Common issues include:

Cracked or Broken Panes

Cracked windows could be caused by a lawnmowers that throws rocks in the wrong direction or the blow of a tree branch by strong winds. This is not only visually bad, but it can result in higher energy bills because the broken pieces let cold air into your home. Luckily, it's usually relatively easy to fix windows with damaged panes.

Begin by carefully removing glass using gloves and glasses. window repairs may have to employ a utility knife to loosen any remaining putty or old glazing compound around the edges of the frame. Next, wipe down the glass's surface and the frame's wood using a soft cloth or paper towel.


Once the frame is clean then apply a waterproof silicone caulking on the perimeter of the frame. This helps prevent water from getting in through the crack, which could cause further damage to both the frame and the glass.

If you have double-pane glass, cracks that are not treated properly could weaken the gas layer between the panes and render your windows less insulative. If the crack is serious enough to threaten the quality of the glass or the glass has an inner pane that's totally missing, it might be the time to call an expert.

Thermal stress cracks can also occur when there's an extreme difference in temperatures between the inside and outside of your home, causing the glass to expand or contract. If this happens across two portions of a window it's recommended to replace the window rather than trying to repair it.

If your windows are cracked and not quite ready to be replaced clear tape can do a great job of stabilizing the crack and keeping out bugs and cold air. You can cut an amount of nylon stocking big enough to completely cover the crack and then glue it to the surface with duct tape. It's not a solution that will last forever however it can be useful in a pinch and keeps insects and cold air out of your home. If you notice cracks on your older windows it is recommended to contact the local company to determine if replacing the whole window is a better solution.

Rotten Wood

Wood rot is a frequent issue with windows. It can ruin a house's appearance and pose a safety risk. It is, however, possible to fix rotted wood. First, you need to ensure that the source of the rot has been dealt with. This can be accomplished by looking for leaks in the roof, missing gutters, cracked caulking and any other areas which allow water to penetrate the wood.

Next, you will need to remove any rotten areas of the window frame. This can be done using the claw hammer, chisel or a rasp. Once the rotten areas have been eliminated it is time to replace them with new wood. It is recommended that you make use of pre-treated wood for this project as it is more resistant to decay. If you are unable to replace the rotted wood You can try using wood filler or hardener to help strengthen the damaged area. This type of product will be available at a majority of hardware stores. To achieve the best results, make sure you follow the directions on the label.

After you have repaired the damaged areas of the window sill, it is important that you protect the area. Apply a water-resistant sealant to the wood. Sikkens for instance is a fantastic product to apply.

You can also use an epoxy filler that is two-part to protect the wood from further damage. It is easy to apply and gives an excellent finish. However, it is very important to adhere to the instructions for application on the label. Once the epoxy filler is dry, you can sand the wood's surface. Start with a rough sandpaper and then move on to a smoother grade.

You don't want to expose the damaged part to further moisture. So, it's recommended to cover the repaired area with an oil-based primer that will shield it from moisture. Then, you can reapply the waterproof wood sealant.

The Won't open

The reason a window won't open can be caused by various factors. The house could have settled, or the wood frames could have warped during humid weather. Somebody may have nailed them shut for security. However, with a bit of patience and the right tools, many windows that are locked can be opened.

One of the most frequent reasons for windows that won't open is accumulated debris or gunk on its moving parts. The buildup of dirt and grime on the sliding tracks, hinges, and locks over time, according to Acme Glass. Additionally, hardware made of metal can get rusty when in contact with humidity and direct sunlight. Spraying grease on these areas will aid in preventing oxidation and help keep your windows operating properly.

The pulleys that raise or lower the window can become loose, or break. These components can lose their tension and get blocked, especially when the window is two or more stories above the ground.

If you're having difficulty opening windows, try using a pry bar to gently force the window to open just a little at each time. Put a block on the frame of the window to give the pry bar more leverage. Be careful not to damage either the wood or the window. Try using a hairdryer to dry the frame's edges for several minutes. This will warm the wood and make it easier to move.

A damaged spring can be the reason for windows that don't lift or lower. Based on the manufacturer of your windows, you'll be required to refer to your owner's manual for further instructions.

If you've tried cleaning the moving parts of your windows and lubricating them but they still won't open it could be the right time to replace windows with new, energy-efficient windows from Homespire Windows and Doors. Don't let your windows slip from functional to useless since a window that isn't properly closed can expose your home to water damage and burglary. Contact our team to learn more about our windows replacement services and products today!