Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can help homeowners save time and money. Sometimes, replacing old windows is more cost-effective.
Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown often cause cracks or holes in window glass. These are usually simple fixable with the right tools.
If the window's frame is getting rotten it's recommended to replace the entire unit.
Glass that is cracked or broken
A severe storm or the sand from your lawnmower or even the vase you put down too hard could crack the glass of your windows. You can stop cracks from getting worse by investing a little more time and effort. This will reduce the cost of replacing glass.
The first step in any repair is to remove the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may have to use a utility knife to cut off any glass fragments that are stuck to 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 to its original position from leaking, causing further damage. You'll also want to ensure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the glass you're replacing is bigger than the previous piece, you'll need to use a circular or mitersaw to reduce it.
After your surface has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a glass glue designed specifically for window glass. After that, reinstall the glass into the window sash. Avoid flexing or moving the glass during this step as it could cause the crack to get deeper.
You can also use products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It is designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted versions. Just be aware that this kind of fix will not completely conceal the crack, so it's not a suitable choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Another option is epoxy which is a bit more time-consuming to apply, but will provide the strongest seal and can make the cracked window nearly invisible. Before applying epoxy you'll need to wash your glass and the area around it thoroughly. You will also need be prepared to deal with any sudden weather changes which could cause the cracks to widen. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair methods or if your glass is especially large or a double-paned window It's recommended to contact a professional to have a professional repair.
Sashes that won't open
A window that isn't able to stay up isn't simply a nuisance. It can also be dangerous. Repair My Windows And Doors -hung and single-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms that keep the sash from sliding. However there are times when one or more mechanisms may be damaged or removed. Check the balance and pivot bar shoe to determine if one or both has become dislodged. You will need to replace the pivot bar and balance shoe if they've been dislodged.
Moisture in the window frames of the sash can cause cycles of contraction or expansion. As time passes, this can loosen the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. You can repair this problem without removing the window, if you use a blade to cut the frame joints. If your wood appears to be swelling, it's usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your house which allows water to get into the frame.
A sash cable that is snapped is another reason that can cause windows that aren't opening. It is possible to reconnect the cord using pliers, and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord is completely broken, you will have to replace it.
Paint can cause a window to be bind and be difficult to move. If you find that the sash channel on double-hung windows has been sealed with paint, you can break the bond by scoring the paint with a knife and then trying to slide it. If this doesn't work, you will need remove the sash, and then cut the seam between the sash and stop, strip of separation or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows can be made from plastic or metal. These shoes have a U shape slot that is locked when the shoe is in the normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe using a screwdriver then turn the slot upside down using the photo 2. Then you can slide the sash up and down and check whether the window is functioning normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't only visually unattractive, but it can cause serious harm to the structural integrity in the area of the home it has infested. The fungus that causes it feeds on moisture and turns wood beams, walls, and joists into a soggy and spongy mush. The best way to prevent decay is to ensure your home is properly maintained and that areas that have exposure to the elements are properly protected. Even if you're vigilant any missed painting session, clogged rain gutter, or a minor roof leak could expose your window frames as well as porch columns and other areas of the home to decay organisms.
The majority of wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is usually caused by condensation or rainwater seepage. The latter can happen when a damp proof course isn't installed or is damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are affected by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.
The first step to repair the rot is to take off the old material. This is generally easy enough using a pry bar although a combination of hammer and chisel might be needed for the most difficult spots. After the rotten wood has been removed, the gap needs to be caulked and filled. There are a variety of wood fillers to choose from and the best one will depend on the amount of work you wish to do, how deep the hole is, and how much of the frame can be saved.
If the rot has spread out too far for a filler to work, you'll have to replace the damaged part. You can hire an expert to do this or do it yourself. This is a more complex task that requires the expertise of a carpenter to complete. If you're unsure of your DIY ability here, then it's best to call in a professional.
While repairing wood that is rotting is always a possibility, it's far easier (and more affordable) to stop it from happening in the beginning. Preventative measures include regularly sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk and installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splattering onto the trim on the exterior. You should also look for signs of an excessive amount of humidity around your window, and consider installing a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Probably the most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is water that drips from or under the window. Sometimes, this is easy to spot, but often it is hidden behind a wall, and is harder to locate. This can cause soft wood, mould, and even structural damages in your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best way to protect windows. You can identify small smudges by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually inspecting.
Fogged windows can also be a sign of a failing seal. They might not be structurally damaging, or cause your electric bills to increase, but they affect the appearance of your RV.
Window seals that fail are mostly caused by weather damage with seals expanding in hot temperatures and shrinking in colder ones. This can be mitigated by storing your camper underneath cover and keeping it out of direct sunlight. A simple car wash will help prevent the salt from causing damage to your window rubber seals.
Another factor that can lead to sealing failure is scrubbing seals with brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that will degrade the rubber. Seals may become brittle and more susceptible to cracking. Avoid using harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks in good condition with a dry toothbrush.
This is the most efficient and cheapest way to protect the windows of your RV. It also gives you a chance to check the condition of your window seals, and make repairs that can prevent costly future problems.
Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a more expensive repair than simply resealing your sash, however it is nevertheless much cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by faulty seals. This is a straightforward DIY project that can prolong the life of the RV windows and save money.