Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. But, there are times when replacing old windows are more economical.
Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown frequently cause holes or cracks in window glass. These are usually simple fixable using the correct tools.
If the frame of the unit is rotten, it's better to replace the entire unit.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A storm that is severe or a stray piece of debris from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase that is set 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 help you save money on replacement glass.
The first step in any repair is to remove the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully rip off any trim, molding or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. You may need to use an utility knife to remove any stubborn glass shards that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After removing the glass, clean the surface and surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the glue used to put the glass back in place from leaking, causing further damage. You'll also want to ensure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the glass you're replacing is larger than the prior piece, you will need to make use of a circular saw or mitersaw to trim it.
After your surface is cleaned and dried, you can apply a glass adhesive designed specifically for window glass. Place the glass back inside your window sash. Do not bend the glass or moving it during this process. This could cause the cracks to get deeper.
You can also make use of products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It's specially designed to work with all types of glass including tinted windows. Be aware that this kind of repair will not fully cover the crack, so it's not the best solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is a little more time-consuming to apply but provides the most significant seal and can make the cracked window almost invisible. It is essential to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area prior to applying epoxy. You'll also need to be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes that might cause the crack to expand and then widen again. If you're not happy with these DIY repair methods or if your glass is particularly large or a double-paned window, it's best to contact a professional for a professional repair.
Sashes That Willn't Open
A window that does not remain up is more than just an inconvenience; it could also be dangerous. Single- and double-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to help keep the sash from sliding up and down within the jambs. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms could become disconnected or damaged. Inspect the balance and pivot bar shoe to determine if one or both has become dislodged. If they have, you will need to replace them in order for the sash to remain stable.
Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction within the frames of sash windows made of timber. This could cause the frame joint to become looser over time and then become stuck. You may be able to repair this without dismantling the window by running a utility knife around the joints of the frame and then prying them open. If the wood appears swelling, it's usually caused by a lack of flashing on your house's exterior that lets water soak into the frame.
A sash cable that has snapped is another reason for windows not opening. Try reattaching the cord using pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you will have to replace it.
Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If you find that the sash channel on double-hung windows has been sealed with paint and you want to break the bond by scoring the paint using an utility knife and attempting to move it. If this fails then you'll have to take off the window sash, then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop, parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of plastic or metal. They have a U-shaped slot in them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place in the sash. To unlock the shoe using a screwdriver and turn the slot to the side using the image 2. Then, slide the sash back and forth to see whether it is working properly.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot is not only unsightly; it can also cause serious harm to the structural integrity of the area of the home it has invaded. The fungus that causes it feasts on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into a soggy mush. To prevent rot it is important to ensure that your home is maintained and areas exposed to the elements are secured. Even if you are vigilant the slightest lapse in painting or clogged rain gutter or a minor roof leak can expose windows or porch columns and other areas of the home to decaying organisms.
The majority of wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is often caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. This can happen when damp-proofing course is not installed or damaged or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall are affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step to repair the rot is to take off the old material. It's generally easy to do using a pry bar however the combination of hammer and chisel could be required for the most difficult areas. After the decayed wood has been removed, the hole needs to be filled and sealed. There are a variety of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on how much work you'd like to do and the depth of the hole.
If the rot has spread out too far for a filler work, you'll have to replace the damaged part. This can be done either by hiring a professional or by doing it yourself. This is a more difficult task that requires the expertise of a carpenter to complete. If you're unsure about your skills at DIY it is recommended to call in an expert.
While repairing wood that has rotted is a possibility, it's far easier (and less expensive) to prevent it from happening in the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk, and installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splashing up onto the trim on the exterior. Also, you should look for signs of an excessive amount of humidity around your window, and consider the use of a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping from or around windows is the most obvious indication that the seals of windows are shrinking. Sometimes, this is easy to detect, but often it is hidden in a wall and harder to find. This can result in soft wood, mold, or even structural damage to your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best way to guard windows. Gently pressing against the trim of the seal and visual inspection will help you spot soft spots before they can cause water damage.
upvc repairs can also be an indication of a weak seal. While they are unlikely to cause structural damage or increase your electricity bill, they can detract from the aesthetics of your RV.
The weather is the main factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand and in colder temperatures they contract. This can be mitigated by storing your camper under cover and keeping it away from direct sunlight. Also, a simple car wash can help to keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.
Another factor that can cause sealing failure is scrubbing seals with brushes or washrags containing cleaning chemicals that degrade the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more susceptible to cracking. The best way to prevent this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows and to keep the windows and sash tracks clean with a dry brush.
This is the simplest and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. This will also give you the opportunity to examine the seals on your windows and make any needed repairs.
It is more expensive to have your window seals lubricated, or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, but it's still cheaper than repairing water damage caused by failed sealing. This is a simple DIY project that will extend the life of the RV windows and save money.