Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window is not opening and closing smoothly it could be an indication of a leaky seal. The expansion and contraction caused by heat over time can destroy seals between double panes, allowing moisture, dirt and energy loss.
Wood rot can also occur in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is a great method to cut costs on costly repairs.
Cracks and Chips
A window that is cracked is not only ugly, it can be dangerous. It exposes the glass to cracks and also humidity, which can lead to a mold problem. If you want to ensure that your family is safe and your windows intact it is essential to repair any cracks or chips immediately.
Rock chips, pebbles, and even Dolichovespula Maculata seeds could break your windows. (No it's not a plant. It's actually an insect.) But don't fret as these cracks can be repaired.
This method is a good option to repair single-paned household glass or even double-paned windows that have cracks only on one side. This method isn't applicable to windshields because they require an instrument that injects resin into the crack to create the vacuum.
First clean the area you're planning to repair the crack using glass cleaner. Make use of a thumbtack or pin to remove any glass fragments that are loose from the crack. Also, you should clean the surface with rubbing alcohol or acetone to ensure that the repair material is properly adhered the repair material.
Certain methods claim that a repaired crack is almost undetectable. While this is true for some types of repairs, it's not a realistic target for all, especially for small cracks within the glass. Repairing these cracks will help to prevent them from becoming bigger problems, and they may even stop them from spreading.
If you'd like to have a crack that is completely invisible, you should look for an option that makes use of clear super glue. This type of super glue does not swell as it dries and will not exacerbate the crack. Make sure you go through the directions carefully for the specific product you are using to make the best decision.
For a solution that is more temporary, you can try covering a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This can serve as a sealer, and slow down the progress of the crack. However, it's essential to apply the polish slightly outside 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 the wood's swelling or decay, or because the cords and balance systems that allow them to move upwards and downwards can break. The problem may be something simpler, such as dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It could be that the mechanism needs to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is to remove the sash. You can do this using a putty knife and some patience. First score the paint between the jamb and sash stop and then carefully pull them apart. Be careful not to break the sash stop, or jamb, and then set the pieces aside to keep them safe.
After removing the sash, you'll be able access the pocket piece as well as the front window stops. They can be removed using an utility blade and then lower the top sash down to the sill. The bottom sash may not be as difficult as the top to move however getting it all the way down may be a problem. After you've lowered it all the way you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock your balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of the window) to ensure it is able to support the weight of the sash.
If your sash still doesn't stay up, you may need to replace the balance system or the sash. It's typically simpler than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are available from a variety of vendors and aren't too expensive. After you've replaced your balance system or sash, you can move the sash and check to see whether it functions correctly.
The sash tilting pin may also be removed or be slid out during cleaning. This is easy to repair if you're handy but you should only try this on older windows that are safe to remove. If not, it's better to contact an expert who is familiar with the particular type of window you have.
Caps for drip Caps
If you're experiencing dampness around your windows, it could be the right time to invest in new drip caps. This L-shaped piece of flashing is put over your window after it's installed but before siding is put in, and helps to direct water away from the frame. It's a simple project that can prevent the damage caused by moisture, and also will save you maintenance costs later on.
Install a dam at the end of the window cap to stop water from entering the trim at the ends. Simply use a pair of tin snips to form an elongated "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold will stop rain from rolling off the ends of the flashing and down into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been fabricated with an end dam for you. These preformed drip cap are available in a variety of color options and can be added to your window when you purchase your window.
While you're installing the new drip cap, be sure to also put the head flashing under the sheathing above it. repairing upvc windows is the same kind of flashing used to create the j channel on your trim for the exterior. It's a good idea to skip tape the entire length of head flashing, and only seal the corners.
The head flashing is cut at each corner at 45 degrees to create an elongated flap. It's then folded back and taped again to the sheathing. This creates a small gap for water to pass through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.
After you've fastened the drip cap to the sheathing you can apply caulk to the top edge of the cap. This will prevent the moisture from getting into the wood of your housewrap or window sill as well as the siding that is above the window. Be aware that moisture can cause structural problems and wood rot, therefore it is best to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Sash Weights
The weights that are placed on windows (also known as sashweights or sashlines) help balance the sashes to prevent them from moving when they are opened. The weights themselves might need to be replaced, or they may be tangled, and need to be loosened. It's also possible that the counter balances need to be replaced.
The first thing Pam will do is inspect the outside of the window to ensure there's no visible damage or rot that has to be addressed prior to when she starts the work. If there are visible signs of damage, she will have to make the necessary repairs before beginning the process of restoring the windows.
She begins by removing the parting stops and the interior sash stop on both sides of the window. This involves scoring the paint line on both sides of the interior sash stop using a utility knife, and cutting it off using an instrument for woodworking. Pam states that this step is important because if you use a mallet to remove the stops, they could break or split. She suggests a handheld woodworking tool with a narrow blade.
Once the stops have been removed, she's ready to remove the sashes themselves. She takes off the sash at the bottom, and then the top. Pam is able to lubricate the sash cords to allow them to move smoothly. She can then pull the cord to find the metal hooks connected to each sash. They are usually worn out and need to be replaced. Then, she takes one of the old sash weights out of its pocket and screws in a new one.
The sash is weighed on a scale and examines the weights. Then she replaces it with an alternative that is equal to the weight of the sash. She repeats this process for the other sash in order to make sure it's properly balanced. She applies a level after the sashes have been put back in place to ensure they're level. She also lubricates cords so that they slide more easily and tightens the counterbalance hooks.