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Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. However, there are instances when replacing old windows are more cost-effective.

Stray baseballs and projectiles often cause cracks or holes in windows. These are typically easy repairs with the right tools.

If the frame of the window is getting rotten, it's best to replace the entire window.

Broken or Cracked Glass

A storm that is severe or the pebbles from your lawnmowers or the vase you set down too hard may break the glass of your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can stop these cracks from getting worse and help you avoid the cost of replacement glass.

First, take out the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. It is also possible to employ a utility knife to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or old glazing.

After removing the glass clean the surface and the surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the adhesive used to glue the glass back into place from leaking, causing further damage. You'll also want to ensure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the new piece is larger than the old one, you'll have to reduce it using circular saws or a miter saw.

After your surface is cleaned and dried, you can apply a glass glue designed specifically for window glass. Install the glass back into your window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this step as it could cause the crack to grow.

Finally, you can use products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass to fill the crack and seal it. It's designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted versions. This kind of fix will not completely cover the crack. It's not suitable for windows that are seen from the outside.

Another option is epoxy which is more time-consuming to apply, but provides the most significant seal, and can make the cracked window virtually unnoticeable. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area prior to applying the epoxy. Also, you'll need be prepared for any unexpected weather changes that could cause the crack to widen again. If you're not happy with these DIY repair techniques or if the glass you have cracked is especially large or a double-paned glass It's recommended to call in the professionals to have a professional repair.

Sashes that won't open

A window that doesn't remain up is more than just a nuisance. It can also be dangerous. Double- and single-hung windows come with balancing mechanisms that assist in stopping the sash from moving up and down within the jambs. Nevertheless the mechanism may be damaged or removed. Check the pivot bar and balance shoes to see if either or both are dislodged. You will have to replace the bar pivot and balance shoe if they've been dislodged.

Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction within the frames of sash windows that are made of timber. This could cause the frame joint to loosen over time and then become stuck. You may be able to fix this without removing the window by running a utility knife around the frame's joints and then prying them open. If the wood appears to be swelling, it's typically caused by a lack of flashing on your house's exterior which allows water to get 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 using pliers, and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord is completely broken, you will have to replace it.

Paint can also cause windows to become bounded and be difficult to move. If you notice that the sash channel of double-hung windows is painted shut it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint using a knife and then trying to move it. If this doesn't work then you'll have to take off the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop or parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from metal or plastic. They feature an U shaped slot that locks when the shoe is in the normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, use a screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then, you can slide the sash up and down, and then check whether the window functions normally.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't only unsightly and aesthetically pleasing, it is a serious threat to the structural integrity of the part of the house it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to feed on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a soggy mucus. To stop the rot from occurring you must ensure that your home is maintained and the areas that are exposed to the elements are secured. Even if you're diligent any missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose window frames, porch columns, and other parts of the home to decaying organisms.

Most wood decays due to excessive humidity, which is typically caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. The latter can happen when damp proofing courses aren't installed or damaged or damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are affected by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.

The first step in repairing rot involves removing the old material. It's generally easy to do using a pry bar but the combination of hammer and chisel could be needed for the stubbornest spots. After the decayed wood has been removed, the hole needs to be filled and sealed. There are a myriad of wood fillers available and the most effective one will depend on the amount of work you want to accomplish, how deep the hole is, and how much of the frame is left to be saved.





If the rot is just too deep for a simple filler, then you'll need to replace the damaged area. You can hire an expert to complete this task or do it yourself. This is a more complicated task that requires the expertise of a carpenter to complete. If you're unsure about your DIY ability here you should contact a professional.

Repairing rotting wood is possible, but it is much more efficient (and less expensive) to prevent the problem in the first place. The best preventative measures are sealing cracks around the windows, scraping the caulk off and repainting it and installing drip edges on the roof. Also, you should look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about installing a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels under control.

Dirty Seals

Water dripping around or under a window is probably the most obvious indication that the seals of windows are shrinking. This can be easy to spot, however it's usually hidden behind the wall. This can cause soft wood, mould and even structural damage to your RV. The best method to guard your windows is with regular cleaning and inspection checks. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can find soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually inspecting.

Windows that are stained with fog are another sign of a failing seal. While they are unlikely to cause structural damage or increase your electric bill, they can detract from the aesthetics of your RV.

Failing window seals are largely caused by weather damage as the seals expand in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder temperatures. 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 will help prevent the salt from damaging your window rubber seals.

Other causes of window seal failure is cleaning the seals with brushes and washrags that contain cleaning agents that 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 clean toothbrush.

Conducting these regular maintenance tasks is the cheapest and easiest method of protecting your RV's windows. This will also give you the opportunity to examine the seals on your windows and make any needed repairs.

It's more expensive have your window seals lubricated, or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, however it's still cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by poor sealing. This is a straightforward DIY project that will extend the life of your RV windows and help you save money.