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Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. However, there are instances when replacing old windows is more economical.

Stray baseballs and thrown projectiles often cause cracks or holes in windows. These are typically easy fixes using the correct tools.

However, if the frame of the window is rotting it is recommended to replace the entire window.





Broken or cracked glass

A bad storm, the pebble from your lawnmowers or the vase you put down too hard may break the glass of your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can keep these cracks from getting worse and help you avoid the expense of replacing glass.

First, remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any trim, molding or glazing putty holding the glass in the frame. You may have to use a utility knife to remove any glass fragments that are stuck to the frame.

After removing the glass, clean the surface and any surrounding areas thoroughly. This will prevent the glue used to put the glass back to its original position from leaking, causing further damage. You'll also want to ensure that the new glass is a good fit. If the new piece is larger than the previous one, you'll need to cut it down using circular saw or miter saw.

Once your surface has been cleaned then you can apply a glass adhesive made specifically for window glass. Then, reinstall the glass inside your window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this step because it could cause the crack to grow.

In the end, you can use a product like Loctite Super Glue Glass to fill the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted versions. Just be aware that this type of fix won't completely conceal the crack, so it's not a suitable solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Another option is epoxy which is a bit more time-consuming to apply but will provide the strongest seal and will likely make your cracked window glass virtually unnoticeable. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and surrounding area before applying epoxy. You'll also need to be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes that might cause the crack to widen again. If you are not confident of these DIY techniques or if your damaged glass is large or a two-paned, it is recommended to consult a professional.

Sashes That Won't Open

A window that won't stay up isn't simply a nuisance. It could be dangerous. Single-hung and double-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms to keep the sash from sliding. However the mechanism could be damaged or broken. Check the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if one or both has become dislodged. You will need to replace the pivot bar and balance shoe if they've been dislodged.

Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction in the frames of sash windows made of timber. As time passes, this can loosen the joints of the frame and cause them to stick. You may be able to repair this without dismantling the window by running a utility knife around the joints of the frame and prying them open. If your wood appears to be swollen, it is usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your home that allows water to soak into the frame.

Another common reason for windows that don't open is a snapped sash cord. It is possible to reconnect the cord by pulling on the cord (pliers could be beneficial) and sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord is completely damaged, you'll have to replace it.

Paint can also cause a window to be bind and be difficult to move. If the sash channel on double-hung windows has been closed with paint, you might be able to break the bond with the help of a utility knife and slide it. If upvc door repairs near me fails then you'll have to take off the window sash, then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop or parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from plastic or metal. They feature an U shape slot that locks when the shoe is in the normal position within the sash. To unlock the shoe with a screwdriver and turn the slot to the side by following the image 2. Then, slide the sash up and down again and see whether the window is functioning normally.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't just unsightly it's a real danger to the structural integrity of the part of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it feeds on moisture and transforms wood beams, walls, and joists into a sloppy mush. To prevent rot you must ensure that your home is properly maintained and areas exposed to the elements are secured. Even if you are vigilant any missed painting session or clogged rain gutter or minor roof leak can expose your windows or porch columns and other components of the home to decay organisms.

Most wood rot is the result of excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. The latter can occur if a damp-proof course is not installed or damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.

The first step to repairing rot is removing the old material. It's usually simple to do this using a pry-bar, but the combination of hammer and chisel could be required for the most difficult places. After the decayed pieces of wood are removed, the gap has to be filled and sealed. There are a myriad of wood fillers to choose from and the most effective one will depend on the amount of work you wish to accomplish, how deep the hole is, and how much of the frame can be preserved.

If the rot is just too deep for a simple filler, then you'll need to replace the damaged area. This can be done either by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more difficult project that requires carpentry expertise to complete. If you aren't sure about your DIY skills, it is best to consult a professional.

While repairing rotting wood is always an option however, it's much more effective (and cheaper) to prevent it from happening in the first place. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk as well as installing drip edges on the roof to stop water from splattering onto exterior trim. You should also be looking for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about the use of a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels under control.

Dirty Seals

The most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is water that drips down the sides or under a window. Sometimes, this is easy to spot but most of the time it's hidden in a wall and harder to find. This can lead to soft wood, mould, and even structural damage to your RV. The best way to safeguard your windows is with regular cleaning and inspection checks. You can spot small smudges by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually inspecting.

Fogged windows are a common sign of a leaking seal. While they are unlikely to cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from your RV's aesthetics.

The weather is a major factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand while in colder temperatures, they shrink. This effect can be reduced by storing your camper under cover and keeping it out of the direct sunlight. A simple car wash will aid in preventing salt from damaging the rubber seals on your windows.

Other causes of window seal failure are scrubbing the seals with brushes and washcloths that contain cleaning chemicals which break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more prone to cracking. Avoid using harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks tidy with a dry toothbrush.

Doing these maintenance routines is the least expensive and most efficient method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you a chance to examine the condition of the window seals and make repairs that can save you from costly future issues.

It is more expensive to have your window seals lubricated, or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, but it's still less expensive than fixing water damage caused by failed sealing. If you're willing to put in a few hours of work, then this is an easy DIY project that can extend the lifespan of your RV's windows and save you money in the end.