Most homeowners are surprised to find that most problems with windows can be effectively repaired. Replacement is usually only necessary in cases of serious damage, such as after extreme weather conditions. You don't have to put up with a window that is difficult to open, closes unexpectedly, or leaks air. Most windows can be repaired to work like new. Putty and weather stripping are inexpensive items that you can buy at the hardware store and fix yourself.
You can replace a blade that is deformed, damaged, or that no longer fits properly. To get started, check if the window is plumb, level and square using a level and tape measure. You may find that the entire window unit was incorrectly installed or changed as your home was built. In that case, it needs to be replaced or reinstalled. We have nearly 150 locations in the U.
S. and Canada where you can talk to our window repair experts. They are knowledgeable, responsible and reliable. They do the job right the first time, so homeowners trust Mr.
Handyman not only for window repair but also for all their home repair and maintenance projects. Before you decide if repairing or replacing a window is right for you, take a look at your windows. Some things that may look bad on windows are easy to repair. Chipped paint, for example, is an easy solution. You can sand and repaint exterior windows yourself or, if you're not a do-it-yourself person, hire a professional painter.
Before painting, make sure there are no cracks, holes, or gaps in the window frame - this type of damage must be repaired before repainting. In most wooden windows, the glass is “glazed” in place, held up with small pieces of metal called spikes, and sealed with putty. Even when the glass is healthy, cracked and missing putty should be replaced. Glazing requires practice, but it's worth it. During periods of extreme heat or freezing temperatures, a broken window can increase your energy costs and decrease your comfort. Instead of replacing the entire window, take matters into your own hands and apply your manual skills to replace corner joints.
Before replacing a crank mechanism on a casement window or awning, try cleaning and lubricating it with white lithium grease. Windows can be damaged by anything from wear and tear to a wandering baseball or a failed break-in attempt. For example, neglecting real wood window frames could cause them to rot so much that the glass does not sit properly in the frame. While both have the ability to move in, many homeowners choose to keep the upper window inactive by nailing or painting it. By adding a good quality storm window, you can achieve much of the insulation of double glazing, plus additional protection against air infiltration through the gaps. If you see signs of water infiltration into your home, you should quickly determine the problem with the window and the water source outside of it. While remedies exist for removing hazardous paint, replacing old windows will eliminate any potential risk of lead paint poisoning. An old double-leaf wooden window is often supposed to be replaced for long-term energy savings.
To reinstall, a silicone cord seals the glass in a vinyl window; in the case of a metal window, clean and reuse the rubber seal. Sometimes repairing and maintaining old windows can be more problematic than proceeding with window replacement.
