Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't opening and closing with ease it could be a sign of a leaky seal. Heat-induced expansions or contractions can cause damage to seals in double pane windows over time which allows dirt and moisture to get into.
Wood rot is also a common problem in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent option to save money on expensive repairs.
Cracks and Chips
A window that is cracked can be dangerous. It exposes the glass to further cracks and also humidity, which can cause mold problems. If you want to ensure that your family is secure and your windows in good condition it is essential to repair any cracks or chips immediately.
The most frequent items that could break your window are rock chips and pebbles that are that are thrown by cars in the front of you, and even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no this isn't a plant, it's a bug). But don't despair as these cracks can be repaired.
This repair method works for single-pane household glass and double-pane windows with cracks in just one pane of glass. This method will not work for windshields due to the need for an instrument that injects resin into the crack to create the vacuum.
First clean the area in which you're going to repair the crack with glass cleaner. Then, use a thumbtack or pin to remove any glass shards that have fallen in the crack. You should also wipe the surface using rubbing alcohol or acetone to ensure proper adhesion of the repair material.
double glazed window repairs near me claim that a repaired crack can be virtually undetectable. This is true for certain kinds of repairs, but not for all, and especially small cracks. However, fixing cracks can help stop them from causing larger issues and can prevent them from spreading further.
If you're looking for an unnoticeable crack, search for a repair kit that uses super glue that is clear to repair the damage. This kind of super glue will not swell as it dries, and won't exacerbate the crack. Be sure to go through the directions carefully for your specific product to make the right choice.
For a more temporary solution, you can try covering a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This can serve as a sealer and slow the progression of the crack. However, it's important to apply the polish just a bit away from the edges of the crack to avoid damaging the integrity of the windshield.
Sashes that aren't moving
Many old windows are difficult to open due to damaged or swollen wood or because the balance mechanisms that move them upwards and downwards can break. However, often the issue is something simpler, like dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It may be that it needs to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is to remove the frame from the sash. You can do this with a putty blade and a bit of patience. Score the paint between the jamb and sashstop first, and then carefully pull the two pieces apart. Be careful not to damage the sash stop or jamb, and put the pieces aside to protect them.
After removing the sash you will be able to access the pocket piece and front window stops. You can take them off using a utility blade, and then lower the top sash down to the sill. The bottom sash may be similar to being difficult to move as the top sash however, it's also slightly more difficult. Once you've lowered the sash completely using a screwdriver with a flat head to reset and relock your balance shoe (the little box that sits on the bottom of the window) to allow it to support the weight of the sash.
If your sash still doesn't stay up, you may have to replace the balance system or sash. It's usually simpler than you might believe, since replacement parts are fairly affordable and are available from a variety of vendors. After you have replaced the balance system, or sash, you are able to examine the sash and determine whether it's functioning properly.
The sash tilting pin can also be removed or fall out when cleaning. If you're handy, you can fix this yourself. But it is recommended to only perform this on older windows that are safe to remove. If you're not handy, it's best to engage a professional with expertise in the window brand you have.
Caps with drip Caps
If you're experiencing water around your windows, it could be the right time to invest in new drip caps. This L-shaped flashing is placed on the top of the window following installation, but before siding. It helps direct water away from your frame. It's a quick project that can help prevent the damage caused by moisture, and also will save you maintenance costs in the future.
A dam at the end of your window cap flashing may also help prevent water infiltration at the end of the trim. Simply use a pair of tin snips to form a small "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold will prevent rain from slipping off the ends of the flashing, and then down into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that are already fabricated with an end dam included for you. These drip caps are available in a variety of colors and can be added when you purchase your window.
Install the head flashing underneath the sheathing, which is above the drip cap. This is the same flashing you'll find under the J channel on the outside trim. It is best to cover only the edges of the head flashing and not the entire length.
The head flashing needs to be cut at a 45 degree angle on each corner, creating an opening, then it's folded back down and taped over the sheathing. This creates a small opening for water that may get through the WRB into the sheathing of the house that is above the window.
After you've secured the drip cap to the sheathing, you can apply caulk along the top edge of the cap. This will keep the moisture from soaking into the wood of your window sill and housewrap and housewrap, as well as the siding that is above the window. Be aware that moisture could cause structural problems and wood rot, therefore it is important to stop moisture from entering the house.
Sash Weights
The weights that are placed on windows (also called sashweights, or sashlines) aid in balancing the sashes to prevent them from swaying when they are opened. Weights could need to be replaced or removed if they are tangled. It's also possible that the counter balances need to be replaced.
The first thing Pam does is look at the outside of the window to ensure there isn't a lot of visible damage or rot that has to be addressed prior to when she begins work. If there are visible signs of damage, she will have to do the necessary repairs prior to beginning the process of restoring the windows.
She begins by removing both the sash stops in the interior as well as the stopping points for the parting on each side of the window. To accomplish this, you'll have to cut the paint line with a utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stop and then remove it using a wooden tool. Pam says this step is essential because when you use a mallet to remove the stops, they may break or split. She recommends a small hand-held woodworking tool with a narrow blade.
Once the stops have been removed, she's now ready to remove the sashes themselves. She removes the bottom sash, then the top. Pam lubricates the sash cords prior to taking them out, so that they can move with ease. After the sashes have been removed she can take the sash cord off and find the metal hooks that connect to each sash weight. Most of the time, they're worn out and should be replaced. Then, she pulls one of the old sash weights out of its pocket and replaces it with the new one.
She evaluates the weights by weighing the sash using an instrument to determine how much it weighs. Then, she replaces the weight with an alternative that is equal to the weight of the sash. Repeat this procedure for the second sash to ensure it's balanced. After the sashes are back in place She uses a level to make sure they're level. She also lubricates the cords in order so that they slide more easily, and tightens the counterbalance hooks.