Ten Window Repairss That Really Improve Your Life
Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window is not opening and closing smoothly it could indicate a failing seal. The expansion or contraction caused by heat can destroy seals in double pane windows over time, allowing dirt and moisture to get into.
Wood rot can also be found in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is a great method to cut costs on costly repairs.
Chips and cracks
A cracked window can be risky. It exposes the glass to more breakage as well as humidity, which can lead to a mold problem. Repair any chips or cracks promptly to keep your windows intact and your family safe.
The most common items that can crack your window are rock chips, pebbles thrown by the car in front of you, and even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no this isn't actually a plant, but a bug). But don't fret - these cracks can be repaired.
This method can be used to repair single-paned household glass, or even double-paned windows with a crack on only one side. This method won't work on windshields because they require a specific tool that injects resin into the crack to create an air vacuum.
First, clean the area where you'll be fixing the crack using glass cleaner. Then, use a pin or thumbtack to remove any glass shards that have fallen in the crack. You can also use acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and make sure that the repair material is adhered to the surface properly.
Some methods suggest that a repaired crack can be virtually undetectable. This is true for certain types of repairs but not for all, particularly small cracks. However, fixing cracks can help stop them from growing into bigger problems and may stop them from spreading further.
If you'd like to create cracks that are invisible, then look for a kit that uses transparent super glue. This type of glue doesn't expand when it dries, so it won't exacerbate the crack. Just be sure to go through the directions carefully for the product you're using to make the right choice.
You can cover a slit with clear nail polish to offer an interim solution. This can serve as a sealer and slow the progress of the crack. It is important to keep the polish a bit away from the crack edges to avoid damaging the integrity.
Sashes that don't move
Certain windows from the past are difficult to open because of swollen wood or rotted wood, or because the balance systems that are able to move up and down may be broken. Most of the time, the issue is much easier to fix. It could be caused by dirt or other debris that has clogged the mechanisms. It may be that it needs to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is removing the sash. This can be accomplished using a putty blade and a bit of grit. Begin by scoring the paint between the jamb and sash stop, then carefully pry them apart. Be careful not to break the sash stop, or jamb, and set the pieces aside to protect them.
After removing the sash, you'll be able to access the pocket piece as well as the front window stops. You can remove them with an utility blade, and then lower the top sash until it is at the sill. The bottom sash is just as difficult to move as the top sash however, it's slightly more difficult. After you've brought the sash to the lowest point then use a flathead screwscrew to reset and relock the balance shoe (the small box at the bottom of your window) so that it can support the sash's weight.
If the sash does not stay in place, you could need to replace the balance system or the sash. It's typically easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are available from a variety of suppliers and aren't expensive. Once you've replaced the balance system or sash, you can move the sash around and test it to determine whether it functions properly.
The sash tilting pin could also be removed or be slid out when cleaning. This is easy to fix if you're handy enough however, you should only try this on older windows that are safe to remove. If you're not skilled, it's best to engage a professional with expertise in the brand of window you have.
Caps for drip Caps
If you're experiencing a lot of moisture around your window, it might be time to purchase a new drip cap. The L-shaped flashing piece is placed on top of your window after it's put in but before siding is put in, and helps to direct water away from the frame. It's a quick project that will prevent moisture damage, and will save you maintenance costs later on.
The addition of an end dam to your window cap flashing can also stop water from entering at the ends of the trim. Simply use a pair of tin snips to create an elongated "flap" on both sides of the trim. This will prevent rain from rolling down the sides of the flashing, which will then fall into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been fabricated with an end dam for you. These preformed drip cap are available in a range of color options and can be added when you order your window.
While you're installing the new drip cap, be sure to also put the head flashing under the sheathing above it. This is the same flashing you'll find under the J channel on the outside trim. It's a good idea to avoid tape covering the entire length of the head flashing and only seal the corners.
The head flashing needs to be cut at a 45 degree angle on each corner, creating an elongated flap, then it's folded back down and then taped with a skip to the sheathing. This creates a small gap for water to pass through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.
Once you've secured the drip cap to the sheathing, you can apply caulk along the top edge of the cap. This will prevent the moisture from getting into the wood of your housewrap or window sill, as well as into the siding above the window. Remember that moisture can cause structural issues and wood rot, therefore it is important to stop moisture from entering your home.
Sash Weights
The window's weights (also called sash weights or sash lines) are used to balance the sashes and keep them from swaying excessively when you open them. The weights themselves might require replacement, or they may be tangled, and need to be loosened. Counter balances might also need to be replaced.
Pam examines the exterior of the window first to ensure there are no visible damages or rots that require to be addressed before beginning the work. If there is, she'll have make the repairs prior to attempting to restore the windows.
She begins by removing the parting stops and the interior sash stop on both sides of the window. This involves cutting the paint line on each side of the interior sash stop with a utility knife and cutting it off using a woodworking tool. Pam says this is important because if you attempt to pound the stops off with a mallet, they could cause cracks or even splits. She suggests a hand-held woodworking tool with the narrow blade.
After removing the stops she can take off the sashes. She pulls the bottom sash out first, then the top. Pam lubricates sash cords to make them move smoothly. She then pulls the cord and locate the hooks made of metal that are that are attached to each sash. Usually, they are worn out and should be replaced. Then, she takes one of the old sash weights out of its pocket and replaces it with an entirely new one.
She examines the weights by weighing the sash with an instrument to determine how much it weighs. Then she replaces it with a new one that matches the weight of the sash. Then she repeats the process for the second sash to make sure it's properly balanced. She employs a level after the sashes are re-installed to ensure they're level. double glazed window repairs is able to lubricate the cords to make them slide freely and tightens the counter balance hooks.