12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Window Repairs
Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. However, there are instances when replacing old windows is more cost-effective.
Stray baseballs and thrown projectiles often cause cracks or holes in windows. These are typically easy fixable using the correct tools.
If the frame of the unit is damaged, it's better to replace the whole unit.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A severe storm or the sand from your lawnmower or even the vase you set down too hard can crack the glass of your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can keep these cracks from getting worse and help you avoid the cost of replacement glass.
First, you must remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any trim, molding, or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. You may have to use a utility knife to cut off any stubborn glass shards that are stuck in the frame.
After removing the window, clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will help prevent the glue used to put the glass back in place from leaking and causing more damage. Make sure that the new glass fits well. If the new piece is bigger than the previous one, you'll have to cut it down using circular saw or miter saw.
After your surface has been cleaned then you can apply a glass adhesive made specifically for windows. Reinstall the glass inside your window sash. Do not bend the glass or moving it during this process. upvc window repairs can cause cracks to grow deeper.
You can also apply products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted versions. Just be aware that this kind of repair will not fully cover the crack, therefore it's not a suitable solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is more time-consuming to apply but provides the most significant seal and will likely make your window glass that has been damaged virtually unnoticeable. You will need to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area before applying epoxy. You'll also need to be prepared to deal with any unexpected weather changes that could cause the crack to widen once more. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques or if your glass is especially large or double-paned is best to contact a professional for a repair that is done by a professional.
Sashes That Won't Open
A window that will not stay up for long can be more than an inconvenience It could also be dangerous. Single- and double-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to assist in stopping the sash from moving up and down within the jambs. Nevertheless, one or more mechanisms may be damaged or removed. Inspect the pivot bar and balance shoe to determine if either or both have become dislodged. If they have, you will need to replace them for the sash to stay in place.
The moisture in sash window frames can cause cycles of contraction or expansion. Over time, this can loosen the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. It is possible to fix this issue without removing the window if you use a utility knife to pry the frame joints apart. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's typically caused by a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home that allows water to soak the frame.
Another common reason for windows that aren't opening is a snapped sash cord. You can try to reattach the cord with pliers and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord has snapped completely, you will require replacement.
Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of a double-hung window is painted shut and you want to break the bond by scoring the paint using a knife and then trying to move it. If this does not work then you'll need to take out the window sash, then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop or parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).
The sash shoes used in single-hung windows are constructed of either metal or plastic. They feature a U-shaped slot inside them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need an screwdriver to turn the slot until it is facing sideways (Photo 2). Then, move the sash back and forward to check if it works correctly.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just unsightly; it can also be a serious threat to the structural integrity in the area of the home it has invaded. The fungus that causes it feeds on moisture and transforms wooden beams, walls, and joists into a soggy mush. The best way to stop decay is to ensure that your home is properly maintained and areas that have exposure to the elements are protected. Even when you're diligent just one missed painting session or clogged gutter, or a minor roof leak to expose window frames and porch columns as well as other parts of your house to a variety of decay-related organisms that could quickly eat away at the structure and compromise its strength.
Most wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is often caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. This can happen if a damp proof course isn't installed or is damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step to repair decay is to remove the old material. It is usually easy to do with a pry-bar however a combination hammer/chisel might be needed for the most difficult places. Once the rotten wood is removed, the gap has to be filled and sealed. There are many wood fillers that are available, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you wish to accomplish, how deep the hole is, and how much of the original frame can be saved.
If the rot has spread out too far for a filler perform, you will have to replace the damaged component. This can be done by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more involved project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to finish the job right. If you're unsure of your DIY ability here you should contact a professional.
While repairing wood that has rotted is a possibility, it's far easier (and less expensive) to prevent it from happening in the first place. The best preventative measures are sealing the cracks around windows, scraping the caulk off and repainting it, as well as installing drip edges on the roof. Also, you should look for signs of excessive humidity around your window, and consider using a dehumidifier in order to keep humidity levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping around or under a window is probably the most obvious indication that seals on windows are shrinking. This can be easy to spot, however it's usually hidden behind a wall. This can cause soft wood, mould, and even structural damages in your RV. Regular inspections and cleaning are the best method to safeguard windows. By gently pressing against the trim of the seal and visual inspection can help you identify weak spots before they cause water damage.
Windows that have a haze of fog are an indication of a weak seal. While they won't cause structural damage or increase your electricity bill, they can take away from your RV's aesthetics.
Window seals that fail are mostly caused by weather damage with the seals swelling in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder temperatures. You can minimize this effect by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and keeping it under covers whenever you can. A simple car wash can help prevent the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.
Another reason that can cause seal failure is rubbing seals with brushes or washrags containing cleaning chemicals that will cause the rubber to break down. Seals can become brittle and more prone to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows and to keep the sash tracks and window seals clean using a dry brush.
This is the easiest and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. This also gives you the opportunity to check the seals on your windows and make any needed repairs.
Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a much more costly repair than simply resealing your sash, but it is nonetheless much less expensive than fixing the water damage caused by failed seals. If you're willing to put in a few hours of work, then this is a simple DIY project that will greatly extend the life of your RV's windows and save you money in the end.