Ten Window Repairs That Will Make Your Life Better
Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window doesn't open and close easily it could be an indication of a leaky seal. Expansions or contractions caused by heat can damage seals on double pane windows over time, allowing moisture and dirt to enter.
Wood rot can also be found in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent way to save money on expensive repairs.
Chips and cracks
A window that is cracked is not just unsightly; it can be dangerous. It exposes the window to further damage and moisture which could cause an issue with mold. If you want to ensure that your family is safe and your windows intact, it's important to fix any cracks or chips as soon as you can.
Pebbles, rocks and even Dolichovespula Maculata seeds can break your windows. (No this is not an actual plant. It's actually an insect.) But don't worry the cracks can be repaired.
This repair method is suitable for single-pane household glass, and double-pane windows with cracks only in one glass pane. This method won't work on windshields because they require a specific tool that injects resin into the crack to create a vacuum.
First, clean the area where you're planning to repair the crack using glass cleaner. Then, use a thumbtack or pin to remove any glass fragments that are loose in the crack. It is also recommended to clean the surface with rubbing alcohol or acetone to ensure that the repair material is properly adhered the repair material.
Some methods suggest that a repair will be nearly invisible. While this is true for certain kinds of repairs however, it's not a practical target for all, especially for small cracks in the glass. Repairing these cracks can help stop them from becoming bigger problems, and they may even stop the spread of these cracks.
If you're looking to have an invisible crack, look for repair kits that use a clear super glue to repair the damage. This kind of super glue will not expand as it dries, and won't increase the severity of the crack. Be sure to carefully go through the directions for your product prior to making an informed decision.
For a more temporary solution you can cover chips or cracks with clear nail polish. This can serve as an adhesive and slow down the progression of the crack or chip. However, it's essential to apply the polish just a bit away from the edges of the crack to prevent damaging the integrity of the windshield.
Sashes that won't move
Some old windows are difficult to open due to swollen wood or rotten wood or because the balance systems that move up and down could be damaged. However, often the issue is something much simpler, like dirt or other debris that has gummed up the mechanisms. It might just need to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is to take off the sash. This can be accomplished with an putty knife and a bit of perseverance. Score the paint between the jamb and sashstop first, and then carefully pull the two pieces apart. Place the pieces aside so they do not get damaged.
After removing the sash you will be able to gain access to the pocket piece and the front window stops. You can take them off using an utility blade, and then lower the top sash down to the sill. The bottom sash isn't as difficult than the top one to move however getting it all the way down may be a bit of a challenge. Once you have lowered the sash to the lowest point then use a flathead screwscrew to reset and relock the balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of your window) so that it can support the weight of the sash.
If your sash doesn't stay up, you may require replacing the balance system or sash. It's typically much easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash because replacement parts are readily available from several different suppliers and aren't expensive. After you have replaced the balance system, or sash you can examine the sash and determine whether it's working as intended.
One other issue that can make windows difficult to open is the fact that the tilt pin for the sash is missing or is snagged during cleaning. This is a simple repair if you're handy however, you should only attempt this on older windows that are safe to remove. If not, it's better to call in an expert who has experience with the particular type of window you own.
Caps for drip Caps
If you're experiencing a lot of moisture around your window, it may be time to purchase a new drip cap. The L-shaped flashing piece is placed on top of your window after it's installed but before siding is put in and assists in directing water away from the frame. This easy project can keep moisture from causing damage and save you money on maintenance costs.
The addition of an end dam to your window cap flashing can also stop water from entering at the end of the trim. Make use of a pair of tin snips to create the small "flap". This fold will prevent rain from rolling off the ends of the flashing and falling into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been fabricated with an end dam included for you. These preformed drip caps are available in many color variants and can be added to your order when you place your window.
Install the head flashing underneath the sheathing that is above the drip cap. It's the same type of flashing used under the J channel on your exterior trim. It is recommended to only seal the edges of the head flashing and not the entire length.
The head flashing is cut at each corner at 45 degrees to create a small flap. windows repair is then folded back and taped again to the sheathing. This creates a small outlet for any water that could get through the WRB and into the sheathing of the house above the window.
You can apply caulk to the top of your drip cap once you have attached it to the sheathing. This will stop moisture from soaking into the wood of the window sill, housewrap and siding that is above the window. It's important to remember that moisture can cause wood rot and other severe structural problems and it's always recommended to avoid moisture infiltration from the beginning.
Sash Weights
A window's weights (also known as sash weights or sash lines) help to balance the sashes and prevent them from swaying too much when you open them. The weights themselves may need to be replaced, or they may be tangled, and need to be removed. It is also possible that the counter balances will need to be replaced.
The first thing Pam does is look at the outside of the window to make sure there's no visible damage or rot that needs to be addressed before she starts the work. If there are visible damage, she will have to make the necessary repairs before beginning the process of restoring the windows.
She starts by removing the parting stop and the interior sash stop from both sides of the window. To accomplish this, you'll be required to mark the paint line with an utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stop and then remove it using a wooden tool. Pam says this step is crucial since if you try to pound the stops off using a mallet can crack or split them. She suggests a small hand-held woodworking tool that has the narrow blade.
After removing the stops, she can then remove the sashes. She will remove the bottom sash, then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords in order so that they can move easily. She then pulls the cord and locate the metal hooks attached to each sash. These are usually worn out and must be replaced. Then, she takes one of the old sash weights out of its pocket and screws in an entirely new one.
She checks the weights by weighing the sash on an instrument to determine how much it weighs. Then she replaces the weight with one that is in line with the weight of the sash. She repeats this process for the other sash to ensure it's balanced. She employs a level after the sashes are re-installed to make sure they're plumb. She also makes sure that the cords are lubricated to let them move freely, and re-tightens the counter balance hooks.