A Glimpse At The Secrets Of Window Repairs
Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't closing and opening smoothly, this could be an indication of a failing seal. Heat-induced expansions and contractions over time can destroy seals between double panes allowing moisture, dirt and energy loss.
Wood rot is also a problem in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent option to save money on costly repairs.
Cracks and Chips
A cracked window can be risky. It exposes the glass to further breakage as well as humidity, which can lead to a mold problem. If you want to ensure that your family is secure and your windows in good condition, it's important to fix any cracks or chips immediately.
Pebbles, rocks, and even Dolichovespula Maculata seeds can break your windows. (No, that is not an actual plant. It's actually a bug.) But don't worry the cracks can be fixed.
This repair technique works for single-pane household windows and even double-pane windows that have a crack in only one glass pane. It won't work for windshields that require a special tool to inject resin into the crack and create an air space between the glass layers.
Clean the area that will be repaired with glass cleaner. Make use of a thumbtack or pin to remove any loose glass fragments from the crack. You can also use acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and ensure that the repair material sticks properly.
Some methods suggest that a repair will be nearly invisible. While this is true for some kinds of repairs however, it's not a practical target for all, especially for small cracks within the glass. However, repairing these cracks can prevent them from becoming larger issues and can stop them from spreading.
If you want to have a crack that is completely invisible, then you need to find an option that makes use of super glue that is clear. This kind of super glue will not swell as it dries and will not cause more damage to the crack. Make sure you go through the directions carefully for your specific product to make the right choice.
For a solution that is more temporary you can try covering chips or cracks with clear nail polish. This can serve as a sealer, and slow down the process of repairing the crack. It is essential to keep the polish a little away from the crack edges to avoid damaging the integrity.
Sashes that don't move
Some windows that are old are difficult to open due to swelling wood or rotten wood or because the balance systems that are able to move up and down may be broken. The problem may be something simpler, such as dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It could be that the mechanism needs to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is to take the frame from the sash. You can do this with a putty blade and a bit of patience. Score the paint between the jamb and sashstop first, then carefully pry the two apart. Set the pieces aside so that they are not damaged.
After removing the sash, you'll be able to access the pocket piece and front window stops. These can be removed with an utility knife, and when they are removed in place, you will be able to lower the top sash all way to the sill. The bottom sash can be just as difficult to move as the top sash, however, it's somewhat more difficult. After you've lowered it to the desired level you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock your balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of the window) to allow it to support the weight of the sash.
If the sash doesn't stay in place, you may have to replace either the balance system or sash. It's typically easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash because replacement parts are readily available from a variety of vendors and are inexpensive. Once you've replaced the balance system or sash you can move the sash and test it to see whether it functions properly.
The sash tilting pin could be removed, or fall out when cleaning. This is a simple fix if you're handy enough but it's best to only try this on older windows that are safe to take apart. If you're not an expert you should hire a professional with experience in the brand of window you have.
Caps with drip Caps
If you are experiencing moisture around your window it may be the time to invest in new drip caps. This L-shaped flashing is placed on the top of the window after installation but before siding. It helps direct water away from your frame. This quick project can help to prevent damage from moisture and help you save money on maintenance costs.
A dam at the end of your window cap flashing may also stop water from entering at the end of the trim. Use a pair Tin snips and make the small "flap". This fold will stop rain from rolling off the edges of the flashing and down into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been made with an end dam for you. These preformed drip cap are available in a range of color options and can be added when you purchase your window.
While you're installing the new drip cap, make sure you install the head flashing underneath the sheathing that is above it. This is the same type of flashing used under the J channel on your trim for the exterior. It is best to cover only the edges of the head flashing and not the entire length.
The head flashing is cut on each corner at 45 degrees to create a small flap. It's then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This creates a small opening for water to flow through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.
You can caulk the top edge of your drip cap once you have attached it to the sheathing. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood of the window sill, housewrap and siding that is above the window. It is important to keep in mind that moisture can cause wood rot as well as other serious structural problems, so it's always recommended to avoid moisture infiltration from the beginning.
Sash Weights
The weights that are placed on windows (also known as sashweights or sashlines) help balance the sashes to prevent them from sliding when they are opened. Weights may need to either be replaced or removed if they are tied. It's also possible that counter balances will need to be replaced.
Pam examines the outside of the window first to ensure there aren't any visible damages or rots that must be dealt with prior to beginning the work. If there is, she'll have repair the damage prior to trying to repair the windows.
She starts by removing the interior sash stops and the parts stops on either side of the window. To do this, you will be required to mark the paint line with a utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stop and then remove it using an instrument made of wood. Pam states that this step is essential because using a mallet to remove the stops, they may crack or split. She suggests using small woodworking tools that has a small blade.
After the stops have been removed, she's now ready to take off the sashes. She takes off the bottom sash first, and then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords before taking them out, so that they move smoothly. When sash window repair are untied, she can pull the sash cord out and locate the hooks made of metal that attach to each sash weight. They are usually worn out and need to be replaced. She then takes an old sashweight from its pocket, and screws in a brand new one.
She weighs the sash on an instrument and then check the weights. She replaces the weight with one that's equivalent to the weight of the sash. Repeat the process for the second sash, to ensure that it is balanced. When the sashes have been put back in place and she's used an instrument to ensure that they're in the right place. She also lubricates the cords in order to allow them to slide more easily and tightens the counter-balance hooks.