Twenty Myths About Window Repairs: Busted
2024.07.25 13:11
Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. But, there are times when replacing windows that are old is more economical.
Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are usually caused by stray baseballs or projectiles. These are usually easy repairs using the correct tools.
However, if the frame of the window is beginning to decay it is recommended to replace the entire window.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A storm that is severe, a pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase that is set too hard can crack the glass in your windows. You can prevent cracks from getting more severe by putting in a little more time and effort. This will save you money on replacement glass.
First, remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully pry away any molding, trim or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may have to use an utility knife to get rid of any glass pieces that are stuck to the frame.
After removing the glass, clean the surface and surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the adhesive that glues the new glass in place from leaking out and causing more damage. Also, you should make sure that the new glass is a good fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll need to cut it down using a circular saw or miter saw.
Once your surface is clean, locate an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for window glass and follow the directions on how to apply it. Then, you can reinstall the glass in the window sash. Be careful not to bend or move the glass during this process as it could cause the crack to get deeper.
You can also apply a product such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It's designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted ones. Be aware that this kind of fix won't completely cover the crack, so it's not a suitable choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is a bit more time-consuming to apply but provides the most significant seal and can make your window glass that has been damaged nearly invisible. Before applying epoxy you'll need to wash your glass and the area around it thoroughly. It is also important be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes which can cause cracks to widen. If you're not confident of these DIY methods or if your damaged glass is large or a two-paned, it's recommended to consult a professional.
Sashes that won't let you open
A upvc window repair that doesn't remain up is more than an inconvenience and could be a risk. Double-hung and single-hung upvc windows repair near me are equipped with balancing mechanisms that stop the sash from moving. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms can become disconnected or damaged. Inspect the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both have become dislodged. If they have, you'll need to replace them in order for the sash to stay in place.
The moisture inside the sash window frames can cause cycles of expansion and contraction. In time, this may cause joints to become loose in the frame and cause them to sag. You may be able to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the joints of the frame and slicing them open. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's usually due to a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home which allows water to get into the frame.
Another reason that is commonly cited for windows that aren't opening is a sash cord that has snapped. Try reattaching the cord using pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord is damaged, you'll have to replace it.
Paint can cause a window to bind and be difficult to move. If the sash channel of double-hung windows is painted shut, you may be able to break the bond by using a utility blade and sliding it. If this fails, you will need remove the sash, and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, strip of separation or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from plastic or metal. They have a U shape slot that locks when the shoe is in its normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need a screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then, you can slide the sash upwards and down and check whether the window is functioning normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't only unsightly, it poses a real threat to the structural integrity of the part of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to thrive on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a soggy mucus. The best way to stop rot is to make sure your home is properly maintained and that areas with exposure to elements are adequately protected. Even if you're vigilant any missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose your window frames as well as porch columns and other components of the house to decay organisms.
Most wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen when a damp-proof course is not installed or damaged or when the internal materials like plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step in repairing the rot is to take off the old material. It is usually easy to do using a pry bar however the combination of hammer and chisel could be required for the most difficult areas. After the decayed pieces of wood are removed, the gap must be filled and sealed. There are a myriad of wood fillers that are available, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you want to complete, the depth of the hole is, and how much of the original frame can be saved.
If the rot has gotten too far for a filler to perform, you will need to replace the damaged part. This can be done by hiring a professional, or doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project, however, and requires a good carpentry skills to complete the task properly. If you're not sure of your DIY ability here it is recommended to call in a professional.
Repairing rotting wood is possible however it is simpler (and less expensive) to avoid the issue at the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk, and installing a drip edge on the roof to prevent water from splattering onto the trim on the exterior. You should also look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep humidity levels under control.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping around or under a window is probably the most obvious indicator that window seals are shrinking. Sometimes, it is easy to spot, but often it is hidden in a wall and is harder to locate. This can cause soft wood, mold and even structural damage to your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best way to guard upvc windows repairs near me. You can find soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually looking.
The windows that are stained with fog can be a sign of a failing seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from your RV's aesthetics.
The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand and in colder temperatures they contract. This issue can be cured by storing your camper in a cover and keeping it away from direct sunlight. A simple car wash will help keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.
Other factors that can cause window seal failure is scrubbing the seals with brushes or washcloths that contain cleaning chemicals which break down the rubber. This can make the seals fragile and susceptible to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh window cleaners and to keep the windows' seals and sash tracks clean with a dry, soft brush.
Conducting these regular maintenance tasks is the most affordable and efficient method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to examine the condition of your window seals, and make repairs, which can save you from costly future issues.
Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a much more costly repair than simply resealing the sash, but it is nonetheless much less expensive than fixing the water damage caused by faulty seals. This is a DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV windows and help you save money.
Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. But, there are times when replacing windows that are old is more economical.Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are usually caused by stray baseballs or projectiles. These are usually easy repairs using the correct tools.
However, if the frame of the window is beginning to decay it is recommended to replace the entire window.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A storm that is severe, a pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase that is set too hard can crack the glass in your windows. You can prevent cracks from getting more severe by putting in a little more time and effort. This will save you money on replacement glass.
First, remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully pry away any molding, trim or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may have to use an utility knife to get rid of any glass pieces that are stuck to the frame.
After removing the glass, clean the surface and surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the adhesive that glues the new glass in place from leaking out and causing more damage. Also, you should make sure that the new glass is a good fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll need to cut it down using a circular saw or miter saw.
Once your surface is clean, locate an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for window glass and follow the directions on how to apply it. Then, you can reinstall the glass in the window sash. Be careful not to bend or move the glass during this process as it could cause the crack to get deeper.
You can also apply a product such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It's designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted ones. Be aware that this kind of fix won't completely cover the crack, so it's not a suitable choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is a bit more time-consuming to apply but provides the most significant seal and can make your window glass that has been damaged nearly invisible. Before applying epoxy you'll need to wash your glass and the area around it thoroughly. It is also important be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes which can cause cracks to widen. If you're not confident of these DIY methods or if your damaged glass is large or a two-paned, it's recommended to consult a professional.
Sashes that won't let you open
A upvc window repair that doesn't remain up is more than an inconvenience and could be a risk. Double-hung and single-hung upvc windows repair near me are equipped with balancing mechanisms that stop the sash from moving. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms can become disconnected or damaged. Inspect the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both have become dislodged. If they have, you'll need to replace them in order for the sash to stay in place.
The moisture inside the sash window frames can cause cycles of expansion and contraction. In time, this may cause joints to become loose in the frame and cause them to sag. You may be able to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the joints of the frame and slicing them open. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's usually due to a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home which allows water to get into the frame.
Another reason that is commonly cited for windows that aren't opening is a sash cord that has snapped. Try reattaching the cord using pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord is damaged, you'll have to replace it.
Paint can cause a window to bind and be difficult to move. If the sash channel of double-hung windows is painted shut, you may be able to break the bond by using a utility blade and sliding it. If this fails, you will need remove the sash, and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, strip of separation or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from plastic or metal. They have a U shape slot that locks when the shoe is in its normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need a screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then, you can slide the sash upwards and down and check whether the window is functioning normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't only unsightly, it poses a real threat to the structural integrity of the part of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to thrive on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a soggy mucus. The best way to stop rot is to make sure your home is properly maintained and that areas with exposure to elements are adequately protected. Even if you're vigilant any missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose your window frames as well as porch columns and other components of the house to decay organisms.
Most wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen when a damp-proof course is not installed or damaged or when the internal materials like plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step in repairing the rot is to take off the old material. It is usually easy to do using a pry bar however the combination of hammer and chisel could be required for the most difficult areas. After the decayed pieces of wood are removed, the gap must be filled and sealed. There are a myriad of wood fillers that are available, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you want to complete, the depth of the hole is, and how much of the original frame can be saved.
If the rot has gotten too far for a filler to perform, you will need to replace the damaged part. This can be done by hiring a professional, or doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project, however, and requires a good carpentry skills to complete the task properly. If you're not sure of your DIY ability here it is recommended to call in a professional.
Repairing rotting wood is possible however it is simpler (and less expensive) to avoid the issue at the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk, and installing a drip edge on the roof to prevent water from splattering onto the trim on the exterior. You should also look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep humidity levels under control.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping around or under a window is probably the most obvious indicator that window seals are shrinking. Sometimes, it is easy to spot, but often it is hidden in a wall and is harder to locate. This can cause soft wood, mold and even structural damage to your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best way to guard upvc windows repairs near me. You can find soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually looking.
The windows that are stained with fog can be a sign of a failing seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from your RV's aesthetics.
The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand and in colder temperatures they contract. This issue can be cured by storing your camper in a cover and keeping it away from direct sunlight. A simple car wash will help keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.
Other factors that can cause window seal failure is scrubbing the seals with brushes or washcloths that contain cleaning chemicals which break down the rubber. This can make the seals fragile and susceptible to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh window cleaners and to keep the windows' seals and sash tracks clean with a dry, soft brush.
Conducting these regular maintenance tasks is the most affordable and efficient method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to examine the condition of your window seals, and make repairs, which can save you from costly future issues.
Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a much more costly repair than simply resealing the sash, but it is nonetheless much less expensive than fixing the water damage caused by faulty seals. This is a DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV windows and help you save money.