How to Find a Window Repair Service Near Me
Window replacements can increase the value of your home and increase its energy efficiency. If you have wood single-paned windows or double-paned insulated windows replacement will require special tools and expertise.
Glass offers crisp, clear views of the world around you. However, natural wear and tear causes minor scratches and other imperfections that diminish the clarity of glass.
1. Scratches
Glass is scratch-resistant, durable and long-lasting, but it's not impervious. From tree branches hitting your windows to an angry pet's sharp claws, scratches are among of the most common types of glass damage. Fortunately, you don't need an expert to fix them. You can clean scratches off glass using common household items and DIY methods.
When you are repairing scratches, first check the depth of the scratches. Surface scratches can be felt using your fingernail. If the scratches are deep enough to entrap your nail, they're considered deeper and will require a more serious repair from a glass professional.
The more severe scratches are difficult to remove, which is why it's crucial to test a few options before calling experts. Begin by using a polishing solution for glass. Follow the instructions on the label and make sure to clean the area prior to use. You can also try rubbing the glass using a piece of superfine steel wool. Make sure to change the pad every time to avoid creating more scratches.
If none of these solutions work for you, try covering the scratches with clear nail polish. After cleaning the area, apply a light coat of nail polish and rub it into the area with a soft cloth. Let it sit for one hour before wiping it off using a dry towel. This method isn't a guarantee to work, but it's definitely worth giving it a try in case you don't have a lot of money to spare on a glass repair service.
Contact a professional if scratches don't go away or become more visible. Glass experts use more sophisticated tools and compounds to remove even the most severe scratches from glass. They'll also know how to handle the glass so that it doesn't break again.
2. Cracks
There are plenty of DIY techniques, tips at home and materials you can use to repair damaged glass, but it is important to realize that these are not permanent solutions. A professional consultation is the best way to stop your cracked windows from becoming worse. They will be able to assess the cracks, and offer the best solutions.
There are several different types of cracks that can occur in window glass and each has its own reason. The most common type is a stress crack that occurs due to extreme temperature fluctuations. This type of crack typically occurs between the outside and the inside of the window and can be found between two parts of a single window.
You should also be aware of impact cracks. It is a type of crack that is caused by an impact with a hard object like an object from a baseball or tree branch. It typically has a starburst design around the point of impact.
A less common but still serious type of crack is a pressure crack. It can happen as a result of changes in the pressure of air due to extreme weather or incorrect window installation. This type of crack is typically observed in double-paned or insulated windows and is easily identified by a curving line that is shaped like an hourglass.
Wear protective gear, including thick gloves and closed-toe shoes, if you are dealing with a broken window. You can also cover the crack with plastic or cardboard with cardboard to protect your pets and your family from heat and insects until you can find an expert to repair the window.
After a professional has replaced the windows that are cracked they will likely begin by cleaning the frame and removing the putty. Then, they will take out the broken glass. After view it now has been removed, the experts will apply epoxy to seal the cracks. The process can take time to fully cure, so it is a good idea to keep the windows closed and insulated until this process is complete.
3. Leaks
If water is seeping through your windows from the sides, top or bottom, it's time to schedule repair. This type of leak is usually caused by old or damaged caulking around a window which allows rainwater to get inside the home. It's a simple fix, but it is important to take care as moisture can cause mildew and rot to wooden frames.
The water that leaks from a double-paned window is another common window leak. This is often due to the argon gas which is supposed to be in between the glass panes to serve as insulation purposes has worn out. Although this doesn't necessarily mean that water will eventually make it into your home, it could indicate that the insulating properties of the window are less and it's not as energy efficient.
A damaged flashing or a poorly installed window can result in leaky glass. This can occur if the contractor who installed the window doesn't install it properly or uses non-corrosion-resistant nails, or if they don't properly flash and caulk the edges of the frame. If the window was recently installed and is in need of repair, it's worth contacting the manufacturer to see if the window is still under warranty.
Leaks can also occur when drain holes are blocked or when the sill pan is not properly sloped. All windows must have sill pans that allow water to drain out to the exterior. The sill should also be sloped so that water is able to drain from the window.
Another issue that is often ignored is condensation on the windows. This is an indication that the air inside your home is too humid and it is causing excess moisture to accumulate on the windows. A dehumidifier or central conditioning should help lower the humidity levels within your home, and this will eliminate the condensation on your windows. This isn't a window problem however it's important to take care of it since it could cause mold and other problems in the future.
4. Window Replacement
If your windows are beyond repair or you have to replace them altogether, it's important to find a window company who can install a broad range of styles. If you are replacing old wooden windows with energy efficient double-hung vinyl windows, putting in skylight or bay windows, or installing casement styles each style has its own challenges and materials requirements.
Certain kinds of windows are more expensive to install than others, primarily because of their size and complexity. Full-frame windows, for instance requires the removal of the current window, trim and sill. This can add to the cost of the project. Some materials, like insulated fiberglass or composites, might also require additional framing in order to support the weight.
Be sure to get an estimate from prospective window contractors before you hire them. Although it's tempting, choosing the first professional who offers an estimate at a bargain price could be costly. Many homeowners learn from experience that the lowest priced contractors often produce subpar work and fail to meet their expectations or needs.
It's recommended to consider the length of time required to complete your replacement window project. Window manufacturers and installers are also affected by the same supply chain issues that have afflicted other businesses. It's best to prepare ahead and plan for longer lead times.
It is also essential to have the appropriate tools and equipment needed for window replacement projects. If your home has old windows that aren't fitting properly replacement them will be easier if you have the appropriate ladders and tools for climbing to high locations. Likewise, it's important to have access to large pieces of wood that are needed for the construction of new frames.
The process of having your windshield and other windows repaired and replaced will increase the value, safety and security of your property. Choose a professional who uses high-quality materials and glass to ensure the highest quality repairs and avoid any future issues.