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Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. But, there are times when replacing old windows is more cost-effective.
Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown frequently cause holes or cracks in windows. With the proper tools, these are simple fixes.
If the frame of the window is getting rotten it's recommended to replace the entire window.
Broken or cracked glass
A storm that is severe, the pebble from your lawnmowers or the vase you put down too hard may break the glass of your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can keep these cracks from becoming worse and help you avoid the expense of replacing glass.
The first step in any repair is to take off the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves carefully pry off any trim, molding or glazing putty that is holding the glass in place. You may need to use a utility knife to get rid of any stubborn glass shards that are stuck in the frame.
After removing the window clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will help prevent the adhesive used to glue the glass back to its original position from leaking, causing further damage. It is also important to ensure that the new glass is a good fit. If the glass you're replacing is larger than the previous piece, you'll need to make use of a circular saw or mitersaw to reduce it.
After your surface is clean, find an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for window glass and follow the directions on how to apply it. Install the glass back inside your window sash. Be careful not to bend the glass or moving it during this process. This can cause cracks to grow deeper.
You can also use a product 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 cover the crack. It is not suitable for windows that can be seen from the outside.
Epoxy is another option. It's more time-consuming, but it will provide the most secure seal and makes your glass break virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy you'll need to scrub your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. It is also important be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes which could cause the cracks to grow. If you're not confident with these DIY methods, or if your cracked glass is particularly large or two-paned glass, it's recommended to consult a professional.
Sashes That Won't Open
A window that does not remain up is more than an inconvenience; it could also be a risk. Single-hung and double-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms to stop the sash from moving. However, one or more of these mechanisms could become disconnected or damaged. Examine the pivot bar and balance shoe to determine if either or both has become dislodged. You'll have to replace the balance bar and pivot shoe if they have been dislodged.
Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction in timber frames of sash windows. In time, this may weaken the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. It is possible to repair this issue without removing the window, if you use a blade to cut the joints of the frame apart. If your wood appears to be swelling, it's usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your house that allows water to enter the frame.
A snapped sash cable is another reason for windows not opening. upvc window repair near me can try to re-attach the cord by pulling the cord (pliers might be helpful) and then sliding the sash back into its normal position. If the cord has snapped completely, you'll need 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 it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint using a utility knife and trying to slide it. If this doesn't work then you'll need to remove the sash and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, strip that separates or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of metal or plastic. They come with a U-shaped slot them that is locked when the shoe is in its usual position within the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need a screwdriver to turn the slot so that it faces the other way (Photo 2). You can then move the sash back and forward to check whether it is working correctly.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just unsightly and aesthetically pleasing, it is a serious threat to the structural integrity of the part of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to feed on moisture, transforming wooden beams, joists and walls into soggy mush. To prevent rot you must ensure that your home is maintained and that areas that are exposed to the elements are protected. Even if you're vigilant, it only takes one missed painting cycle or clogged gutter, or a minor leak in the roof to expose window frames, porch columns and other areas of your home to a variety of decay organisms that can quickly eat away at the structure and cause damage to its stability.
Most wood decay is caused by excessive moisture content, which can be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. The latter can happen when damp proofing isn't installed or damaged or damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step in repairing decay is to remove the old material. This is typically done using a pry bar although a combination of hammer and chisel may be necessary for the most stubborn spots. Once the rotten wood is removed, the hole needs to be caulked and filled. There are a myriad of wood fillers that are available, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you'd like to complete, the depth of the hole is and how much of the frame is left to be saved.
If the rot is too extensive 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 involved project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to finish the job right. If you aren't sure about your DIY abilities it is recommended to consult a professional.
While repairing rotting wood is always an option, it's far easier (and less expensive) to prevent it from happening in the first place. Prevention measures include sealing the cracks around windows, scraping the caulk off and repainting it and installing drip edges on the roof. You should also be looking for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep the humidity levels in check.
Dirty Seals
One of the most obvious signs of shrinking window seals is water that drips from or under a window. Sometimes, this is easy to spot but most of the time it's hidden within a wall and more difficult to locate. This can result in soft wood, mold, and even structural damage to your RV. The best way to protect your windows is with regular cleaning and inspection checks. Gently pressing against the trim on the seal and visual inspection can help you identify weak spots before they cause water damage.
The windows that are stained with fog can be an indication of a weak seal. They may not be structurally damaging, or cause your electric bills to increase, but they hinder 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 weather, they shrink. You can minimize this effect by keeping your camper out of direct sunlight and storing it under cover whenever possible. A simple car wash can assist in preventing the salt from damaging the rubber seals on your windows.
Other causes of window seal failure include cleaning the seals with brushes and washrags that contain cleaning agents which break down the rubber. This can make the seals brittle and prone 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.
Performing these routine maintenance tasks is the most affordable and efficient method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the chance to examine the condition of your window seals, and make repairs, which can save you from costly future issues.
Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a more expensive repair than simply resealing the sash, but it is nevertheless much cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by seals that fail. If you are willing to commit some time and time, then this is a DIY project that can extend the lifespan of your RV's windows and save you money in the long term.
