Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can help homeowners save time and money. However, there are instances when replacing old windows are more cost-effective.
Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are often caused by stray baseballs and projectiles. With the appropriate tools, these are simple solutions.
If the frame of the unit is rotten It is recommended to replace the whole unit.
Broken or cracked glass
A storm that is severe or a stray pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase that is set too hard can crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately just a little time and effort can prevent these cracks from becoming worse and save you the expense of replacing glass.
First, you must remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully rip away any molding, trim, or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. You may need to use a utility knife to cut off any stubborn glass shards that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After taking the window off, clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will prevent the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking and causing further damage. Make sure the glass is properly fitted. If the new glass is bigger than the previous one, you'll need to cut it down using circular saw or miter saw.
Once your surface is clean, find a glass adhesive that's specifically made for windows and follow the instructions on how to apply it. Install the glass back inside your window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this procedure as it could cause the crack to get deeper.
RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can also make use of products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill in the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted versions. Just be aware that this kind of repair will not fully cover the crack, so it's not a suitable solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is a little more time-consuming to apply but will provide the strongest seal and can make the cracked window virtually unnoticeable. You will need to thoroughly clean the glass and surrounding area before applying epoxy. You will also need to be prepared for any sudden weather changes which could cause the cracks to expand. If you're not happy with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or a double-paned glass, it's best to call in the professionals for a professional repair.
Sashes That Willn't Open
A window that will not remain up is more than an inconvenience; it could also be a risk. Double-hung and single-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to assist in stopping the sash from sliding up and down within the jambs. Nevertheless there are times when one or more mechanisms could be damaged or broken. Inspect the balance and pivot bar shoe to determine if either or both have become dislodged. You'll need to replace the pivot bar and balance shoe if they have become dislodged.
Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction in timber frames of sash windows. This could cause the frame joints to become looser over time and then become stuck. It is possible to fix this issue without removing the window if you use a blade to pry the frame joints apart. If the wood appears swelling, it's typically due to a lack of flashing on your house's exterior that lets water soak into the frame.
Another common reason for a window that won't open is a snapped sash cord. It is possible to reconnect the cord using pliers, and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord has snapped completely, you will have to replace it.
Paint can also cause a window to be bind and be difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel on double-hung windows has been painted shut it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint with a knife and then trying to slide it. If this does not work then you'll have to take off the window sash, then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop, parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of plastic or metal. They have an U shape slot that is locked when the shoe is in the normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe with a screwdriver then turn the slot upside down using the image 2. Then you can slide the sash upwards and down again and see if the window works normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot is not only unsightly; it can also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity of the area of the home it has infested. The fungus that causes it to thrive on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a sloppy mush. The best way to prevent decay is to ensure your home is properly maintained and areas that have exposure to elements are protected. Even if you're vigilant any missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose your windows or porch columns and other components of the house to decaying organisms.
Most wood rot is the result of excessive moisture content, which can be caused by rainwater seepage, condensation or rising dampness. This can occur when a damp proof course isn't installed or damaged, or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step in repairing rot is removing the old material. It is usually easy using a pry bar however using a combination of hammer as well as chisel might be needed for the most difficult areas. After the rotten pieces of wood are removed, the hole must be filled and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The most suitable one will depend on the amount of work you want to do and how deep the hole.
If the rot is too deep for a filler that is simple, then you'll have to replace the damaged area. You can engage an expert to complete this task or do it yourself. This is a more complex project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to finish the job right. If you're unsure of your skills at DIY it is recommended to contact a professional.
Repairing rotting wood can be accomplished however it is easier (and less expensive) to avoid the issue in the first place. The best preventative measures are sealing the cracks around windows, scraping off caulk and repainting it and installing drip edges on the roof. You should also be looking for signs of an excessive amount of humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep the humidity levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping from or around a window is probably the most obvious indication that seals on windows are shrinking. This can be easy to spot, however it's usually hidden behind the wall. This can cause soft wood, mold, or even structural damage in your RV. The best way to protect your windows is with regular cleaning and inspection checks. Pressing gently against the seal trim and visually inspecting will help you spot soft spots before they can cause water damage.
Fogged windows are a common sign of a leaking seal. While they are unlikely to cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from the appearance of your RV.
The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand and in colder temperatures, they shrink. This issue can be cured by storing your camper under cover and keeping it out of direct sun. A simple car wash will aid in preventing salt from causing damage to the seals of your window.
Another cause that can lead to sealing failure is rubbing seals using brushes or washrags with cleaning chemicals that will break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks in good condition with a clean toothbrush.
Doing these maintenance routines is the least expensive and most efficient method of protecting the windows of your RV. This also gives you the opportunity to check 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. However, it's less expensive than repairing the water damage caused by poor sealing. This is a simple DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV windows and save money.
