About Piper

Description

Why We Enjoy Window Repairs (And You Should Too!)
Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. Sometimes, replacing windows is more cost-effective.

Stray baseballs and thrown projectiles frequently cause holes or cracks in window glass. With the appropriate tools, these are simple fixes.

However, if the window's frame is getting rotten it's recommended to replace the entire unit.


Broken or cracked glass

A storm that is severe, a pebble from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase that is set too hard could break the glass in your windows. You can stop cracks from getting worse by spending a little extra time and effort. This will help you save money on replacement glass.

First, remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves carefully pry off any trim, molding or glazing putty that is holding the glass in place. You may need to use a utility knife to remove any glass pieces that are stuck in the frame.

After taking the window off, clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will prevent the adhesive used to hold the new glass in place from leaking out and causing more damage. Also, you should ensure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll need to cut it down using circular saws or a miter saw.

Now that your surface is clean, search for a glass adhesive that's specifically made for windows and follow the directions on how to apply it. Then, reinstall the glass in your window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this step because it could cause the crack to deepen.

You can also apply products like Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It's designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted versions. This type of fix can't completely hide the crack. It's not suitable for windows that are visible from the outside.

Repair My Windows And Doors is epoxy which is more laborious to apply, but offers the most durable seal and can make your window glass that has been damaged nearly invisible. It is essential to thoroughly clean the glass and the surrounding area prior to applying the epoxy. You'll also need be prepared for any abrupt weather changes that could cause the crack to widen once more. If you're not confident with these DIY repair techniques or if the glass you have cracked is particularly large or double-paned, it's best to contact a professional for a professional repair.

Sashes That Willn't Open

A window that does not stay up for long can be more than just an inconvenience and could be dangerous. Double-hung and single-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms that prevent the sash from moving. However, one or several of these mechanisms may be damaged or removed. Check the pivot bar and balance shoes to see if either or both are dislodged. You'll need to replace the balance bar and pivot shoe if they have become dislodged.

The moisture inside the sash window frames can cause cycles of expansion or contraction. In time, this may loosen the joints of the frame and cause them to sag. You can repair this problem without removing the window, if you use a blade to break the joints of the frame apart. If the wood appears swelling, it's typically caused by a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home that allows water to get into the frame.

Another reason that can cause a window that won't open is a sash cord that has snapped. You can try to re-attach the cord by pulling on the cord (pliers might be helpful) and then sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord has snapped completely, you'll have to replace it.

Paint can cause a window to bind and be difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of double-hung windows has been painted shut, you can break the bond by scoring the paint with a utility knife and trying to move it. If this does not work then you'll have to take off the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop or parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from metal or plastic. These shoes have a U-shaped slot in them that is locked when the shoe is placed in its normal position in the sash. To unlock the shoe, using a screwdriver then turn the slot upside down by following the image 2. Then slide the sash back and forward to check whether it functions correctly.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't only ugly, it can also be a serious threat to the structural integrity in the space it has invaded. The fungus that causes it feasts on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy and 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 protected. Even if you are vigilant the slightest lapse in painting, clogged rain gutter, or minor roof leak can expose window frames, porch columns, and other areas of the home to decaying organisms.

Most wood decay is caused by excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. The latter can happen when a damp proof course isn't installed or damaged or damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.

The first step in repairing rot is removing the old material. This is typically done using a pry bar but the combination of hammer and chisel might be needed for the most stubborn spots. After the rotten pieces of wood are removed, the hole must be filled in and sealed. There are many types of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on the amount of work you'd like to do and how deep the hole.

If the rot is too extensive for a simple filler, then you'll need to replace the damaged area. This can be done by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more difficult project that requires carpentry expertise to complete. If you are unsure about your DIY abilities, it is best to consult an expert.

While repairing rotting wood is a possibility, it's far easier (and more affordable) to prevent it from happening in the beginning. Preventative measures include regularly sealing cracks around windows scraping and repainting caulk and installing a drip edge on the roof to stop 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 think about using a dehumidifier in order to keep the humidity levels under control.

Dirty Seals

The most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is the water that drips from or under a window. It's possible to see, but it's usually hidden behind the wall. This can result in soft wood, mold, and even structural damage to your RV. The best method to guard your windows is to keep them clean by performing regular cleaning and inspection checks. You can identify soft spots by pressing gently on the seal trim while visually checking.

Windows that have a haze of fog are an indication of a weak seal. They might not be structurally damaging or causing your electricity 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. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and keeping it under cover when possible. A simple car wash can help to keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals that are on your windows.

Other factors that can cause window seal failure are scratching the seals with brushes and washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. This can make the seals weak and susceptible to cracking. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks tidy with a dry toothbrush.

This is the most efficient and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. This also gives you the chance to inspect the seals on your windows and make any required repairs.

It is more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, however 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 windows in your RV and save you money.