Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

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

Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown frequently cause holes or cracks in windows. With the right tools, these are easy fixes.

However, if the frame of the window is beginning to decay, it's best to replace the entire window.

Broken or cracked glass

A bad storm, a pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase set down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. You can prevent cracks from getting more severe by investing a little more time and effort. This will reduce the cost of replacing glass.

The first step in any repair is to remove the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. It is also possible to use a utility knife to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or old glazing.

After removing the window clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will stop the glue used to hold the glass to the surface from leaking out and causing more damage. You'll also want to make sure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous piece, you'll have to use a circular or mitersaw to trim it.

After your surface is cleaned, you can apply a glass adhesive made specifically for window glass. After that, reinstall the glass in the window sash. Be careful not to bend the glass or moving it during this process. This can cause the cracks to get deeper.

You can also apply products like 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. Just be aware that this type of fix won't completely cover the crack, therefore it's not the best choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Epoxy is a different option. It's more time-consuming, but it will provide the most secure seal and makes your glass break virtually unnoticeable. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and surrounding area prior to applying the epoxy. Also, you'll need to be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes that might cause the crack to expand again. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques or if your glass is particularly large or double-paned, it's best to call in the professionals for a repair that is done by a professional.

Sashes That Willn't Open

A window that will not stay up for long can be more than a nuisance It could also be dangerous. Double-hung and single-hung windows come equipped with balancing mechanisms to stop the sash from moving. However one or more of these mechanisms can become disconnected or damaged. Examine the pivot bar and balance shoes to see whether one or both have dislodged. You'll have to replace the bar pivot and balance shoe if they've become dislodged.

Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction in timber frames of sash windows. In time, this may weaken the joints of the frame and cause them to stick. You might be able to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the joints of the frame and then prying them open. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's typically caused by a lack of flashing on the exterior of your house that allows water to soak the frame.

Another reason that is commonly cited for windows that aren't opening is a snapped sash cord. It is possible to reconnect the cord using pliers, and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord has snapped completely, you will have to replace it.

Paint can also make windows difficult to move. If the sash channel of a double-hung windows is painted shut, you may be able to break the bond using a utility blade and sliding it. If this doesn't work, you'll need to remove the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop, parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung upvc windows repair may be made of metal or plastic. These shoes have a U-shaped slot in them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe using a screwdriver, turn the slot sideways using the photo 2. You can then move the sash back and forward to determine if it works properly.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot is not only ugly, it can also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of the area it has invaded. The fungus that causes it feeds on moisture and transforms wooden beams, walls and joists into a soggy mucus. To avoid rot you must ensure that your home is well maintained and the areas that are exposed to the elements are well secured. Even if you're vigilant the slightest lapse in painting, clogged rain gutter, or a minor roof leak can expose windows as well as porch columns and other areas of the home to decay organisms.

The majority of wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is usually caused by rainwater seepage or condensation. The latter can occur when damp-proofing course is not installed or damaged or when internal materials like drywall and plaster are affected by leaky appliances, pipes and fixtures.

The first step to repair rot is removing the old material. It is usually easy to do this using a pry-bar but the combination of hammer and chisel could be required for the most difficult areas. After the decayed pieces of wood are removed, the hole must be filled and sealed. There are a myriad of wood fillers that are available and the most effective one will depend on the amount of work you wish to do, how deep the hole is, and how much of the original frame is left to be saved.

If the rot has spread too far for a filler work, you'll need to replace the damaged part. You can either hire a professional to do this or do it yourself. This is a more complex project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to get the job done right. If you're not sure of your skills at DIY it is recommended to contact an expert.

While repairing wood that has rotted is a possibility however, it's much more effective (and less expensive) to prevent it in the beginning. Preventative measures can include sealing cracks around the windows, scraping off caulk and repainting it and installing drip edges on the roof. You should also look for signs of excess humidity around your windows and consider a dehumidifier to keep the levels of moisture in check.

Dirty Seals

One of the most obvious signs of shrinking window seals is the water that drips down the sides or under a window. It's possible to see, but it's often hidden behind a wall. This can lead to soft wood, mould and even structural damages in your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best method to safeguard Upvc windows repairs near me. By gently pressing against the seal trim and visually examining it can help you find weak spots before they cause water damage.

Windows that have a haze of fog are a sign of a failing seal. They might not be structurally harmful or making your electricity bill rise, but they affect the appearance of your RV.

The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand while in colder temperatures they contract. You can minimize this effect by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and keeping it under cover when possible. A simple car wash will help to keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals that are on your windows.

Other factors that can cause window seal failure is scrubbing the seals using brushes and washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that degrade the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more prone to cracking. The best way to prevent this is to avoid using harsh window cleaners and to keep the windows and sash tracks clean with a dry, soft brush.

This is the most efficient and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to check the seals on your windows and make any necessary repairs.

It is more expensive to have your window seals lubricated, or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, however it's still less expensive than fixing water damage caused by failed sealing. This is a DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV windows and save money.