Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing windows can be more cost-effective.

Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are often caused by stray balls and projectiles. With the right tools, these are easy fixes.

If the frame of the unit is rotten, it's better to replace the whole unit.

Broken or cracked glass

A storm that is severe or the pebbles from your lawnmower or even the vase you put down too hard could crack the glass of your windows. Fortunately just a little time and effort can keep the cracks from getting any worse and reduce the cost of replacement glass.

The first step in any repair is to remove the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully remove any trim, molding or glazing putty that holds the glass in the frame. You may also need to employ a utility knife to break loose any glass shards stuck in the frame or old glazing.

After removing the window clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will prevent the adhesive that glues the new glass from leakage and causing further damage. Also, you should make sure that the glass you've purchased is a perfect fit. If the glass you're replacing is larger than the prior piece, you'll need to employ a circular or mitersaw to trim it.

After your surface is clean, find an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for glass windows and follow the directions on how to apply it. Reinstall the glass into the window sash. Avoid flexing or moving the glass during this process; it can cause the crack to grow.

You can also apply products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and seal it. It's formulated to work with all types of glass and tinted windows. Just be aware that this type of fix won't completely cover the crack, therefore it's not a good solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Epoxy is a different option. It is more time-consuming, but it provides the best seal and will make your glass break virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy, however you'll need to wash your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. You'll also need be prepared for any abrupt weather changes that could cause the crack to grow and then widen again. If you're not happy with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is particularly large or has a double-paned glass is best to call in the professionals for a professional repair.

Sashes that won't open

A window that will not remain up is more than a nuisance It could also be a risk. Double-hung and single-hung windows come with balancing mechanisms that assist in stopping the sash from moving up and down within the jambs. However, upvc window repairs near me or several of these mechanisms may be damaged or removed. Inspect the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both has become dislodged. If they have, you will have to replace them for the sash to remain stable.

The moisture inside the window frames of the sash can cause cycles of expansion or contraction. This can cause the frame joints to become loose over time and stick. You can repair this problem without having to remove the window if you use a utility blade to pry the frame joints apart. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's usually caused by missing flashing on the exterior of your house which lets water soak into the frame.

Another reason that can cause windows that aren't opening is a sash cord that has snapped. You can try to reattach the cord with pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you will require replacement.

Paint can cause a window to be bind and become difficult to move. If you find that the sash channel of a double-hung window is painted shut it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint with an utility knife and attempting to move it. If this doesn't work then you'll need to take out the window sash and then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop, the parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows can be made of metal or plastic. They have an U shape slot that is locked when the shoe is in its normal position in the sash. To unlock the shoe, use an screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then move the sash back forth to see whether it functions properly.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot is not only ugly, it can also be a serious threat to the structural integrity of the area of the home it has invaded. The fungus that causes it to feed on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy mucus. To avoid rot you must ensure that your home is maintained and the areas that are exposed to the elements are secured. Even if you're vigilant any missed painting session or clogged rain gutter or a minor roof leak can expose window frames or porch columns and other components of the home to decaying organisms.

The majority of wood decays due to excessive moisture, which is usually caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. This can happen if damp proofing courses aren't installed or is damaged or if internal materials such as plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.

The first step in repairing rot is removing the old material. This is typically done with a pry bar, however a combination of hammer and chisel may be necessary for the most difficult areas. After the rotten pieces wood are removed, the hole must be filled and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on how much work you want to do and how deep the hole is.

If the rot is too extensive for a filler that is simple, then you'll have to replace the damaged area. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project however, and requires a good carpentry skills to get the job done right. If you are unsure of your DIY abilities, it is best to call an expert.

Repairing wood that is rotting can be accomplished, but it is much easier (and less expensive) to prevent the problem at the beginning. Preventative measures include regularly sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk, and installing a drip edge on the roof to prevent water from splashing up onto exterior trim. Also, you should look for signs of an excessive amount of humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep humidity levels in check.

Dirty Seals

Water dripping from or around a window is likely to be the most obvious sign that window seals are shrinking. It's easy to spot, but it's often hidden behind walls. This can cause soft wood, mold, or even structural damage in your RV. Regular inspections and cleaning are the best method to safeguard windows. Gently pressing against the trim on the seal and visual inspection can help you find weak spots before they cause water damage.

Fogged windows are another common sign of a failing seal. They may not be structurally damaging, or cause your electric bills to skyrocket, but they do affect the appearance of your RV.

The failure of window seals is largely caused by weather damage, with seals expanding in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder ones. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper out of direct sunlight and keeping it under covers whenever you can. A simple car wash can aid in preventing salt from causing damage to your window rubber seals.

Another reason that can lead to seal failure is scrubbing seals with brushes or washrags containing cleaning chemicals that will break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more susceptible to cracking. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks clean with a dry toothbrush.

This is the easiest and cheapest way to protect the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to check the condition of the window seals and make repairs, which can help prevent costly problems in the future.

Having your window seals lubricated with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a much more costly repair than simply resealing your sash, but it's nonetheless much less expensive than fixing the water damage that is caused by failed seals. This is a simple DIY project that will extend the life of the RV windows and save money.