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Home Window Repair

A lawnmower's pebble, a heavy drink set on a glass-topped coffee table, or a shattered window are just a few of the issues that could affect windows in your home.

These issues can be easily solved by you, without calling a professional. These simple fixes won't be winning your home any beauty contests, but they will keep your windows in top condition.

Broken Panes

A stray ball or strong wind can damage a window pane, leaving your home vulnerable to the elements. However, replacing a single window isn't as difficult as you think, and it's a much cheaper fix than purchasing a new window or hiring a professional. You can replace a damaged pane of glass quickly and easily with a few simple tools.

Before you begin your work begin, put on safety goggles and clean the area around the window of glass splinters and glass chards. Remove any paint or varnish from the wood frame. Remove the saddle bars from a steel sash. Then, using a utility blade, carefully pry away the trim from the window frames. Be careful not to damage any lead in the existing glass and do not try to crack it too much.

If you are using a brand new pane, it's recommended to cut it in a shop for hardware. This will ensure that the glass is of the correct size. Be sure to subtract 1/8 inch from the actual dimensions of the opening to the glass as wood expands and expands and contracts.

Most single pane windows are held in place by glazing putty as well as small metal clips referred to as glazier's point. Apply a generous amount of glazier's putty to the wood frame around one side of the broken glass. Press glazier's points into putty about every six inches. This will hold the window in place and permit you to reseal the frame later.

Before you apply any putty, dampen your finger with linseed oil and then run it over the wood's surface. This will help to lubricate the glue and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is a finite product that will dry over time. Add a few drops of Linseed to the mix to extend its shelf life. Once the putty has a good amount of moisture and you are ready to begin fixing your window.

Broken Seals

Over time the rubber used to seal double-paned windows may be degraded. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors is then vulnerable to moisture, compromising its purpose and allowing it to let in cold or warm humidity. The first sign that a seal is broken is fog or condensation between the two panes. A noticeable difference in temperature between inside and outside your home is a further indication. And finally, a broken seal can cause windows to look hazy or blurred as the vacuum sealed gas argon escapes.

A window replacement is the only way to restore your windows back to their original state. Fortunately, many modern double-paned windows come backed by warranties and can be replaced at no extra cost to the homeowner.

If your windows are under warranty, it is important to avail this benefit immediately to save money on the cost of a complete replacement. The warranty covers the labor and materials required to repair or replace windows.

Although you can repair windows by yourself, the process is complex and requires special tools. The best choice is to hire a professional window installer. They'll take care of the removal, cleaning and the reinstallation of your windows, all while making sure they're properly coated and insulated to shield your home from moisture, hot sun and cold air.

Window replacement can also save you money on your energy bills. By replacing older windows with double paned windows, you can reduce your heating and cooling bills. Additionally, the newer windows feature better insulation and create a more comfortable home environment. The only downside to a window replacement project is the initial cost. However, this can be offset with the savings you'll notice on your electricity bill in the future.

Sashes that won't let you open

A sash that doesn't open is more than just a nuisance. It can also be dangerous. The sash can fall down at any time, causing harm to any item on the sill, including children and pets. Fortunately, double and single-hung windows are designed with balance mechanisms that keep the sash upright and away from the jambs. It could be that the sash has not been properly connected to the mechanism or that it needs to be reset or locked.





Begin by determining if the window moves. If it won't, use a tool at the meeting rail (where the upper and lower sashes join together) to try to pry the two sashes off. If the window is moving, remove the sash from the window and place it on an even surface to get at the sides. If the spline of the sash is loose only in some spots, you can use an utility knife to cut the spline apart at the corners. If the spline has been broken or torn, you will need to replace it.

If the sash continues to be stuck, it may be necessary to take off the front trim piece. There are specific tools available in hardware stores that can help you do this, however a putty knife will also do the trick. You'll also need to score the seal of paint around the sash channels using your cutting tool, and then remove any screws that are holding the stops in place. After this, you can lift the sash from the frame and reposition the sash.

If the sash remains stuck, it's likely the balance shoe has slid towards the bottom of the frame. It's easy to reset this: Mark the position of the hinge channel, then unscrew. Fill the screwholes with epoxy or woodfiller and smooth them out prior to installing the channel. Once the hinge channel is back in place, just relock the balance pin by advancing it to the "U" position. Reposition the sash until it is aligned with balance, and then verify the window.

Wood Rot

Wood rot can cause structural damage to the structure of a house. It takes several forms that include dry and wet rot. Both result from a combination of moisture and fungus. Both dry and wet rot can be repaired. However, it is best to stop the cause. Property owners can check for decay in areas that are likely to be damp, like outside window frames, timber joists, and basement subfloors. They should also check for any gaps or cracks.

If a hole is discovered the area must be cleaned and filled with a water-resistant timber filler. After the wood has dried and dries, it can be stained to match the surrounding. If you decide to use a wood stain it is essential to test the product on a small patch of the filler before applying. This will ensure that the stain does not change color, corrode or otherwise alter the finished look of your woodwork.

Wet rot is easily detected by its musty smell that is similar to that of rotting soil. It's also more supple than wood that isn't infected, making it easier to feel it with your hands. Dry rot, on the other hand is more difficult to recognize. This kind of fungus attacks the cells in timber which causes them to break down and then disintegrate.

Dry rot is more difficult to repair as it can penetrate deeper. It can be avoided, however by identifying and fixing the source of moisture, for instance a leak or damp that is penetrating. It is also important to clean your gutters to prevent water buildup that could cause leaks in your home or a flooded cellar.

Homeowners can reduce the chance of rot by keeping windows open and utilizing a dehumidifier in crawl spaces and basements. To stop water from entering gaps, they must regularly clean the caulking and sealant around windows and doors. They should also replace any cracked or damaged timbers.