Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing old windows can be more cost-effective.
Cracks or holes in the windows' glass are usually caused by stray baseballs or projectiles. 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.
Broken or Cracked Glass
A severe storm, the pebble from your lawnmowers or the vase you set down too hard could crack the glass of your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can prevent these cracks from getting worse and reduce the expense of replacing glass.
First, take out the broken glass. Wearing gloves carefully pry off any molding, trim or glazing putty that is holding the glass in place. You may also have to use a utility knife to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or glazing.
After taking the window off, clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will stop the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking, causing further damage. Make sure that the glass you are replacing is a good fit. If the new glass is bigger than the previous piece, you will need to use a circular or mitersaw to reduce it.
Now that your surface is clean, locate the glass adhesive designed for glass windows and follow the instructions on how to apply it. Install the glass back inside your window sash. Avoid flexing the glass or moving it during this step. This could cause cracks to become deeper.
You can also make use of products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and seal it. It's specially designed to work with all kinds of glass, including tinted windows. This type of fix won't completely cover the crack. It's not suited for windows that are seen 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 the cracked window virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy you'll need to scrub your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. Also, you'll need be prepared for any sudden weather conditions that could cause the cracks to widen. If you're not confident using these DIY techniques or if the cracked glass is large or a two-paned, it's best to call the professionals.
Sashes that won't open
A window that isn't able to stay up isn't just a nuisance. It could also be a risk. Single- and double-hung windows have balancing mechanisms that prevent the sash from moving up and down within the jambs. Nevertheless, one or more mechanisms can be damaged or disconnected. Examine the pivot bar and balance shoe to determine if one or both have become dislodged. If they have, you will have to replace them for the sash to remain in place.
The moisture in windows sash can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction. This could cause the frame joints to loosen over time and stick. You might be able to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the joints of the frame and prying them open. If your wood appears to be swollen, it is usually because of a lack of flashing on the exterior of your house that allows water to enter the frame.
A snapped sash cable is another reason for a window not opening. Try reattaching 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 also make windows difficult to move. If the sash channel on a double-hung windows is painted shut, you may be capable of breaking the bond with an utility knife and then slide it. If this fails then you'll have to remove the sash and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, parting strip or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of metal or plastic. These shoes feature a U-shaped slot inside them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place in the sash. To unlock the shoe with a screwdriver, turn the slot sideways by following the image 2. Then you can slide the sash upwards and down again and see whether the window functions normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just ugly, it can also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity in the area it has invaded. The fungus responsible for it feasts on moisture, transforming wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy mucus. The best way to stop decay is to ensure that your home is well maintained and that areas that have exposure to the elements are properly protected. Even the best of intentions, it only takes one missed painting session, clogged gutter or a minor leak in the roof to expose windows or porch columns, as well as other components of your home to a myriad of decay organisms that can quickly eat away at the structure and cause damage to its structural integrity.
Most wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, and can be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen if damp proofing courses aren't installed or damaged, or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.
The first step to repair decay is to remove the old material. This is typically done using a prybar, although using a combination of hammer as well as chisel may be necessary for the most difficult areas. Once the rotten wood is removed, the gap needs to be filled and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The best one will depend on how much work you'd like to do and how deep the hole is.
If the rot has gotten too far for a filler work, you will need to replace the damaged part. This can be done by hiring a professional, or doing it yourself. This is a more complex project, however, and requires good carpentry skills to get the job done properly. If you're not sure of your DIY ability here it is recommended to call in an expert.
Repairing rotting wood can be accomplished however it is more efficient (and less expensive) to prevent the problem at the beginning. Preventative measures include regularly sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk as well as installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splashing onto the trim on the exterior. You should also look for signs of humidity around your windows and think about a dehumidifier in order to keep moisture levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping from or around windows is the most obvious indication that the seals of windows are shrinking. This can be easy to see, but it's usually hidden behind walls. This can lead to soft wood, mould, and even structural damages in your RV. upvc window repairs and cleaning are the best method to safeguard windows. You can identify small smudges by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually checking.
Fogged windows are a common indication of a leaky seal. They might not be structurally damaging, or cause your electric bills to rise, but they affect the appearance of your RV.
Failing window seals are largely caused by weather damage, with the seals swelling in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder ones. This issue can be cured by storing your camper in a cover and keeping it out of direct sunlight. A simple car wash can help keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.
Another reason that can lead to sealing failure is scrubbing seals with brushes or washrags with cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. This can make the seals fragile and susceptible to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows, and to keep the windows' seals and sash tracks clean with a dry brush.
This is the most efficient and most affordable 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.
It's more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced using 303 Protectant spray, but it's still cheaper than repairing water damage that is caused by faulty sealing. This is a simple DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV windows and save money.