Should You Call a Window and Door doctor windows?

Repairs to windows and doors and maintenance benefits homeowners by reducing their energy costs, increasing security, and comfort. Many homeowners have renovated their homes to add value to their property and improve their living condition without having to relocate.

Repair any rotting or loose casing as soon as you can. These are often a sign of moisture penetration and can be repaired at minimal cost.

Cracked or broken glass

If the glass in your windows has cracked or shattered you're probably wondering if you can repair it or if you should to buy a replacement. The answer will depend on a number of factors such as the severity of the break and the type of glass used in your window.

In the majority of cases, it is easier to repair a damaged window than to replace it. The key is to pinpoint what caused the crack and quickly act to stop it from becoming worse. This is especially important with fractures from impact, such as a rock from the lawn mower or throwing a ball by the children.

Remove any window pieces that are still in its frame or lying on the floor. This is best done with heavy duty work gloves and a pair of protective eyewear. Use a chisel or putty knife to gently remove any glaze that is holding the pieces together.

Once you have removed the glass doctor glass shards, clean up the area carefully and dispose of them in a proper manner. Wear protective gloves and closed toe shoes when dealing with glass or mirrors as these can be very sharp. It is also recommended to secure off the area, close the door, and inform your family members not to be allowed to enter until the broken glass is cleaned.

Check the frame, muntins and mullions which support the glass pane. These parts can be damaged by rust and corrosion, which could lead to further problems with the windows doctor.

If you're worried about the long-term damage to your window, you should think about replacing the window with glass that is tempered. Tempered glass is more robust than regular glass, and it can break into smaller granular pieces that are less likely than shards that are jagged to cause injuries.

If you're not comfortable tackling the task yourself or if it will be more cost effective to replace your window, contact a professional window and 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 also assist you to choose between a quick fix or more extensive window replacement.

Frame Damaged

The window frame goes through a lot of wear and wear and tear, which is why it's no surprise that it is damaged often. While some damage is 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.

The rotted wood around window frames can be ugly and lead to many problems like mold and fungus. These can affect the health of your home and its value. To fix this problem, remove any weatherstripping before cutting away the decayed wood with a chisel or a saw. Once you have removed the damaged portion of the frame, make use of an online kit or at a hardware shop that includes all the equipment and parts you require to repair it.

Another issue that is commonly encountered and should be addressed is the moisture-related cracks on the window frames. This is essential because North Carolina experiences high levels of humidity, which can cause the wood to expand and expand as it absorbs and releases moisture. When wood cracks it allows moisture to seep into your home, which could cause damage to the structure of your home as well as your possessions and even the health of your family.

Another issue that is common is the difficulty in opening or closing windows. This can be caused by several different factors. The issue could be caused by a buildup in dirt or dust, which makes it difficult for the sash or frame to move.

If you have any visible signs of damage to the frame of your window after a storm, then it's a good idea consult with an expert, because the damage could be severe enough that full replacement of the window is the best or only option. You may be able to make a claim through your insurance company to cover the cost of any repairs or replacements.

Damaged Seals

Window seals provide the final layer of protection from moisture and air infiltration that could damage windows. They're also responsible for helping to keep the temperature of your home at a comfortable level and reducing energy bills. If your window seal is beginning to fail or you've noticed an abrupt increase in your energy bills it's essential to get the issue fixed immediately before it gets worse.

The glass in your windows, regardless of whether they are double-paned or single-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 sun can cause this material to degrade, allowing air and humidity to enter between the panes. If the window is made up of inert gas, its enhanced insulation value will be also lost. This is why windows with damaged seals will fog.

If you believe that the seals on your windows aren't working, it is best to follow the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. It might seem obvious, but many homeowners overlook this step. Cleaning your windows using the recommended cleaning agent will prolong their life and ensure they are in good condition.

A feeling of draftiness is one of the indicators that your window seal has failed particularly on the cold winter days. The cold air outside is dragging warm air from your window. If you notice that your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be because your windows allow in more cold air.

Another sign that your window seals are deteriorating is if you notice moisture in the window's glass. It could be a thin line of clear water or a perpetual cloud that blocks your view. The cause of moisture in glass is by an infiltration breach that occurs when the window seal is damaged. This can be repaired by resealing with polyurethane the inner aluminum spacer.

Damaged Muntins or Mullions

Muntins and mullions, which are the pieces of wood that divide panes of glass in single pane windows, can be real or fake. If they are damaged, window repair experts can usually fix them. They will take the glass, clean and scrape the area, and then replace any damaged or broken muntins or mullions. This is usually a less expensive solution than replacing an entire window.

Often the more obscure issues are overlooked. While damage to your frame can be apparent from heavy rains or snow melt, or humidity, other issues may not be as obvious. A crack in the dripcap (the cap made of metal that protects the top of the window frame) can allow moisture into the home. This can cause rot and mould. A damaged sash cable could also cause rattles and draughts when the windows are shut or opened.

Repairing a window that leaks or causes draughts can be costly particularly if water seeps into the wall. It is essential to get any leaks repaired immediately after they are discovered. Draughts are usually caused by the faulty hinges on old windows or from poorly designed windows that are letting air in. Window & Door doctor windows can fix leaks and draughts, without replacing the entire window.

If the casing around your window is loosened or cracked, rotting, or is completely missing the casing will need to be replaced. This is not a job that can be done by a non-professional. The wall surrounding it may be in bad condition and will need to be repaired. Loose casing is unattractive but, more importantly it allows moisture and air to infiltrate the home, which reduces energy efficiency. Home centers typically offer primed wood exterior casing or low-maintenance PVC or vinyl items. These are more weather-resistant than wood, but they will require painting frequently to ensure the integrity of the product. All replacement casings must be painted using exterior grade paint, irrespective of the material.