Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can cut down on time and cost for homeowners. However, there are times when replacing windows that are old is more cost-effective.
Stray baseballs and projectiles often cause cracks or holes in window glass. With the proper tools, these are easy solutions.
However, if the frame of the window is beginning to decay it's recommended to replace the entire window.
Broken or cracked glass
A storm that is severe, a pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase set down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can prevent the cracks from getting any worse and reduce the cost of replacement glass.
The first step in any repair is to take off the broken pane of glass. Wearing gloves, carefully remove any molding, trim or glazing putty that holds the glass in the frame. It is also possible to use a utility knife in order to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or glazing.
After removing the glass clean the surface and the surrounding areas thoroughly. This will help prevent the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking and causing more damage. Also, you should make sure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the new piece is larger than the old one, you'll have to cut it down with a circular saw or miter saw.
After your surface is clean, search for an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for window glass and follow the directions on how to apply it. Then, reinstall the glass in your window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this process; it can cause the crack to grow.
You can also make use of products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted ones. This type of fix won't completely hide the crack. It is not suitable for windows that can be visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy, which is a bit more time-consuming to apply, but provides the most significant seal, and can make your window glass that has been damaged nearly invisible. It is essential to thoroughly clean the glass and surrounding area prior to applying the epoxy. Also, you'll need be prepared for any sudden weather conditions that can cause cracks to widen. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or a double-paned glass is best to call in the professionals for a professional repair.
Sashes that won't open
A window that doesn't stay up can be more than just an inconvenience; it could also be a risk. Double- and single-hung windows come with balancing mechanisms that help keep the sash from moving upwards and down within the jambs. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms can become disconnected or damaged. Examine the pivot bar and balance shoe to determine if either or both has become dislodged. If they have, you will have to replace them for the sash to stay in place.
Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction within the timber frames of sash windows. In time, this may loosen the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. You might be able to repair this without dismantling the window by running a utility knife around the frame's joints and slicing them open. If your wood appears to be swelling, it is usually because of a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home which allows water to get into the frame.
A snapped sash cable is another common cause of a window not opening. You can try to reattach the cord with pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you will need 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 by using the help of a utility knife and slide 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, the parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).
The sash shoes used in single-hung windows are usually made of metal or plastic. These shoes have a U shape slot that is locked when the shoe is in its normal position in the sash. To unlock the shoe with a screwdriver then turn the slot upside down using the photo 2. You can then move the sash back forth to see whether it functions properly.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just unsightly and aesthetically pleasing, it is a serious danger to the structural integrity of the part of the house it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to thrive on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into a soggy mucus. The best way to avoid decay is to ensure that your home is maintained and areas that have exposure to the elements are adequately protected. Even when you're diligent just one missed painting cycle or clogged gutter or minor leak in the roof to expose the window frames and porch columns as well as other components of your home to a variety of decay-related organisms that could quickly eat away at the structure and compromise its stability.
The majority of wood decays due to excessive moisture, which is usually caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. This can happen when damp-proofing course is not installed or is damaged or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are affected by leaky appliances, pipes and fixtures.
The first step in repairing decay is to remove the old material. It is usually easy using a prybar, although the combination of hammer and chisel may be necessary for the most stubborn spots. After the decayed pieces of wood are removed, the hole must be filled in and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on how much work you want to do and how deep the hole is.
If the rot is too deep for a filler that is simple, then you'll need to replace the damaged area. This can be done by hiring a professional or by doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to finish the job right. If you're unsure about your ability to do this yourself, then it's best to seek out an expert.
Repairing wood that is rotting can be accomplished however it is more efficient (and cheaper) to prevent the problem at the beginning. The best preventative measures are to seal cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk as well as installing a drip edge on the roof to prevent water from splashing onto the trim on the exterior. You should also look for signs of excessive humidity around your windows, and think about a dehumidifier in order to keep moisture levels in check.
Dirty Seals
One of the most obvious signs of shrinking window seals is the water that drips from or under the window. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors to see, but it's often hidden behind the wall. This can cause soft wood, mould, and even structural damage in your RV. The best way to protect your windows is to keep them clean by performing regular inspection and cleaning. Gently pressing against the seal trim and visually inspecting can help you identify soft spots before they cause water damage.
Windows that are stained with fog are another indication of a leaky seal. While they won't cause structural damage or increase your electricity bill, they can detract from the aesthetics of your RV.
Window seals that fail are mostly caused by weather damage, with the seals swelling in hot temperatures and contracting in colder ones. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper out of direct sunlight and storing it in a covers whenever you can. Also, a simple car wash can help keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals that are on your windows.
Other factors that contribute to window seal failure is scrubbing the seals with brushes and washcloths that contain cleaning chemicals that degrade the rubber. Seals may become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. The best way to prevent this is to avoid using harsh window cleaners and to keep the sash tracks and window seals clean using a dry brush.
Doing these maintenance routines is the least expensive and most efficient method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to check the condition of the window seals and make repairs, which can save you from costly future issues.
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 DIY project that can prolong the lifespan of your RV windows and save money.