Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can help homeowners save time and money. But, there are times when replacing old windows are more cost-effective.
Projectiles and baseballs that are thrown frequently cause holes or cracks in window glass. With the proper tools, these are simple fixes.
If the frame of the unit is damaged, it's better to replace the whole unit.
Broken or cracked glass
A bad storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase pushed down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can prevent the cracks from getting any worse and help you avoid the expense of replacing glass.
The first step in any repair is to take off the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully rip away any molding, trim or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may have to use an utility knife to remove any glass pieces that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After removing the window, clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will stop the glue used to hold the new glass from leaking out and causing more damage. Also, you should make sure that the glass you've purchased is a perfect fit. If the new glass is larger than the old one, you'll need reduce it using circular saw or miter saw.
Now that your surface is clean, find an adhesive for glass that is specifically made for windows and follow the directions on how to apply it. Place the glass back into the window sash. Avoid flexing the glass or moving it during this process. This could cause the cracks to get deeper.
Finally, you can use products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass to fill the crack and seal it. It's formulated to work with all kinds of glass, including tinted windows. Be aware that this kind of fix won't completely conceal the crack, so it's not the best solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Epoxy is another alternative. It is more time-consuming, but it will provide the most secure seal and will make your cracked glass almost invisible. Before applying epoxy you'll need to wash your glass and the area around it thoroughly. It is also important be prepared for any sudden weather conditions that could cause the cracks to expand. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or a double-paned window, it's best to get in touch with a professional for a professional repair.
Sashes That Won't Open
A window that will not remain up is more than a nuisance; it could also be dangerous. Double-hung and single-hung windows come equipped with balancing mechanisms to prevent the sash from moving. Nevertheless, one or more mechanisms could be damaged or broken. Inspect the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both has become dislodged. You will need to replace the pivot bar and balance shoe if they've become dislodged.
Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction within the timber frames of sash windows. This can cause the frame joints to become loose over time and then become stuck. It is possible to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the frame's joints and then prying them open. If your wood appears to be swollen, 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 for windows that aren't opening. Try reattaching the cord by pulling the cord (pliers could help) and sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord is totally damaged, you'll need to replace it.
Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If the sash channel of double-hung windows has been painted shut, you may be capable of breaking the bond using an utility knife and then slide it. If this fails then you'll need to take off the sash and then cut the line between the sash stop, strip that separates or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
The sash shoes that are used in single-hung windows are usually made of metal or plastic. They have an U shaped slot that locks when the shoe is in its normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, use an screwdriver to turn the slot until it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). You can then slide the sash back and forward to determine if it works properly.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just unsightly and aesthetically pleasing, it is a serious threat to the structural integrity of the portion of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus responsible for it is a fungus that feeds off moisture and turns wooden beams, walls, and joists into a soggy and spongy mush. To stop the rot from occurring, you should ensure that your home is maintained and that areas that are exposed to the elements are well secured. Unfortunately, even the best of intentions just one missed painting session or clogged gutter or minor leak in the roof to expose window frames and porch columns as well as other areas of your home to a myriad of decay-related organisms that could quickly destroy the structure and weaken its strength.
Most wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. The latter can occur when a damp-proof course is not installed or damaged or when the internal materials like plaster and drywall become affected by leaky appliances, pipes and fixtures.
The first step to repairing decay is to remove the old material. It is usually easy with a pry bar, however the combination of hammer and chisel may be necessary for the most difficult spots. After the rotten wood has been removed, the hole needs to be filled and caulked. There are a variety of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on the amount of work you'd like to do and the depth of the hole.
If the rot is just too deep for a simple filler, then you'll need to replace the damaged area. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional, or doing it yourself. This is a more difficult project that requires a carpentry expert to complete. If you're unsure of your ability to do this yourself it is recommended to seek out a professional.
While repairing rotting wood is always an option however, it's much more effective (and cheaper) to stop it from happening in the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk, and installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splashing onto the trim on the exterior. You should also check for signs of excess humidity around your windows, and think about a dehumidifier to help keep the humidity levels under control.
Dirty Seals
Water dripping around or under a window is probably the most obvious indicator that window seals are shrinking. Sometimes, it is easy to detect however, it is often hidden within a wall and harder to find. This can lead to soft wood, mold and even structural damage in your RV. The best way to protect your windows is with regular inspection and cleaning. You can identify soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while visually looking.
Fogged windows are another common indication of a leaky seal. They might not be structurally damaging or making your electricity bill rise, but they detract from the aesthetics of your RV.
The weather is a major factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand, whereas in colder temperatures, they shrink. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and storing it under cover whenever possible. Also, a simple car wash will help keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals on your windows.
Other factors that can cause window seal failure is scrubbing the seals using brushes and washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more susceptible to cracking. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks in good condition with a clean 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 help prevent costly problems in the future.
Having upvc window repair lubricated by spraying 303 Protectant replaced is a more expensive repair than simply resealing the sash, however it is nonetheless much less expensive than fixing the water damage caused by seals that fail. If you're willing to commit some time it is a simple DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV's windows and save you money in the long run.