Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can help homeowners save time and money. Sometimes, replacing windows is more cost-effective.
Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown often cause cracks or holes in window glass. With the appropriate tools, these are simple solutions.
If the frame of the window is rotting, it's best to replace the entire unit.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A severe storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase that is set too hard could crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can stop the cracks from getting any worse and help you avoid the cost of replacement glass.
The first step in any repair is to take off the broken pane of glass. Wearing gloves, carefully rip away any molding, trim, or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may have to use an utility knife to remove any glass pieces that are stuck in the frame.
After removing the glass clean the surface and the surrounding areas thoroughly. This will prevent the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking and causing more damage. Make sure the glass is properly fitted. If the new glass is bigger than the previous piece, you will need to employ a circular or mitersaw to cut it down.
Now that your surface is clean, search for a glass adhesive that's specifically made for windows and follow the directions on how to apply it. Reinstall the glass into your window sash. Be careful not to bend or move the glass during this process because it could 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's designed to work on all kinds of glass including tinted ones. Be aware that this type of repair will not fully cover the crack, so it's not a good choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy, which is a bit more laborious to apply, but provides the most significant seal and will likely make your cracked window glass almost invisible. Before applying epoxy, however you'll need to scrub your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. You'll also need be prepared for any unexpected weather changes that could cause the crack to expand again. If you're not happy with these DIY repair techniques or if your glass is particularly large or double-paned It's recommended to call in the professionals for a professional repair.
Sashes That Won't Open
A window that doesn't stay up for long can be more than just an inconvenience; it could also be dangerous. Single- and double-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to help keep the sash from moving upwards and down within the jambs. However, one or more of these mechanisms could become disconnected or damaged. Check the pivot bar as well as balance shoes to see whether either of them has dislodged. You will need to replace the balance bar and pivot shoe if they've been dislodged.
Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction in frames of sash windows made of timber. Over time, this can cause joints to become loose in the frame and cause them to become stuck. You can repair this problem without having to remove the window if you use a utility blade to break the frame joints apart. If the wood appears swelling, it's typically caused by a lack of flashing on your house's exterior that lets water soak into the frame.
Another reason that can cause windows that don't open is a sash cord that has snapped. It is possible to reconnect the cord by pulling it back (pliers could help) and sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord has snapped completely, you will need to replace it.
Paint can also make windows difficult to move. If the sash channel of double-hung windows has been painted shut, you may be in a position to break the bond by using an utility knife and then slide it. If this fails then you'll have to remove the sash and then cut the line between the sash stop, strip that separates or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
The sash shoes used in single-hung windows are made from plastic or metal. They have a U-shaped slot in them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need an screwdriver to turn the slot until it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then you can move the sash up and down again and see whether the window functions normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot is not only ugly, it can also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity in the area it has invaded. The fungus that causes it feasts on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a sloppy mush. The best way to stop decay is to ensure that your home is maintained and areas that have exposure to elements are protected. However, even if you're vigilant just one mishap with the painting process or clogged gutter or minor roof leak to expose window frames or porch columns, as well as other components of your home to a variety of decay organisms that can quickly eat away at the structure and compromise its structural integrity.
The majority of wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is often caused by rainwater seepage or condensation. This can happen if damp proofing courses aren't installed or is damaged or if internal materials like plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.
The first step to repair rot involves removing the old material. It is usually easy to do with a pry-bar however a combination hammer/chisel might be needed for the stubbornest spots. Once the rotten wood is removed, the hole needs to be filled and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on how much work you'd like to do and how deep the hole is.
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 do this or do it yourself. This is a more difficult project that requires a carpentry expert to complete. If you're not sure of your ability to do this yourself, then it's best to seek out an expert.
While repairing wood that is rotting is always a possibility, it's far easier (and less expensive) to stop it from happening in the beginning. The best preventative measures are to seal cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk as well as installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splashing up onto exterior trim. You should also look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep moisture levels under control.
Dirty Seals
Water that drips around or under windows is the most obvious indicator that seals on windows are shrinking. Sometimes, it is easy to detect however, it is often hidden within a wall and harder to find. This can cause soft wood, mold and even structural damage in your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best method to safeguard windows. You can identify soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while inspecting.
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 rise, but they affect the appearance of your RV.
The failure of window seals is largely caused by weather damage, with the seals swelling in hot temperatures and contracting in colder ones. This can be mitigated by storing your camper underneath cover and keeping it away from direct sun. A simple car wash can to keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals that are on your windows.
Another factor that can lead to sealing failure is rubbing seals with brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that will degrade the rubber. This can cause the seals to become brittle and prone to cracking. Avoid using Repair My Windows And Doors and keep your window seals and sash tracks in good condition with a dry toothbrush.
This is the easiest and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. It also gives you a chance to check the condition of your window seals and make repairs, which can help prevent costly problems in the future.
It's more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced using 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 extend the life of your RV windows and help you save money.