Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't able to open and close smoothly, it could be an indication of a failed seal. Expansions and contractions caused by heat over time can cause damage to seals between double panes, permitting dirt, moisture and energy loss.
Wood rot can also be found in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is a great option to save money on costly repairs.
Chips and cracks
A cracked window can be dangerous. It exposes the window to breakage and moisture which can lead to the development of mold. Repair any chips and cracks as soon as you can to keep your windows intact and your family safe.
The most common things that can crack your window are rock chips or pebbles dropped by the car in front of you, and even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no it's not a plant, it's bug). These cracks can be repaired.
This method can be used to repair single-paned glass in homes or even double-paned windows that have cracks only on one side. This method isn't applicable to windshields due to the need for an instrument that injects resin into the crack to create a vacuum.
First, clean the area where you're going to repair the crack with glass cleaner. Then apply a thumbtack or pin to remove any glass fragments that are loose in the crack. You can also use acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and make sure that the repair material is adhered properly.
Certain methods claim that a repair will be nearly invisible. While this is true for certain types of repairs but it's not a feasible goal for many, especially for small cracks in the glass. However, repairing these cracks can prevent them from growing into bigger problems and may stop them from spreading.
If you'd like to have cracks that are invisible, you should look for an option that makes use of transparent super glue. upvc door repairs of glue won't expand when it dries and won't cause more damage to the crack. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully for the product you're using to make the best decision.
If you want to try a temporary solution, you can try covering a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This will act as an adhesive, and will slow down the progress of the crack or chip. However, it's important to apply the polish just a bit away from the edges of the crack to prevent damaging the integrity of the windshield.
Sashes that won't move
Many older windows are difficult to open because of swollen or rotted wood or because the cords and balance systems that move them up and down could break. But often the problem is something simpler, like dirt or other debris that has gummed up the mechanisms. It could be that the mechanism needs to be lubricated or cleaned.
The first step is to take off the sash. You can do this with a putty blade and some patience. Score the paint between the jamb and sashstop first, then carefully pry the two apart. Put the pieces aside to ensure that they don't get damaged.
After removing the sash, you will have access to the pocket piece as well as the front window stops. They can be removed using the help of a utility knife, and then lower the top sash until it is at the sill. The bottom sash may not be as difficult than the top one to move however getting it all the way down may be a challenge as well. Once you've lowered the sash completely using a screwdriver with a flat head to reset and lock your balance shoe (the little box that sits at the bottom of the window) so it can support the weight of the sash.
If the sash does not stay in place, you might require replacing either the balance system or sash. It's usually much easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are readily available from many different suppliers and aren't expensive. After you've replaced the balance system, or sash you can move the sash to test it to determine whether it functions correctly.
Another issue that could make windows hard to open is that the tilt pin for the sash is missing or falls out when cleaning. This is easy to repair if you're handy but it's best to only try this on older windows that are safe to dismantle. If you're not handy, it's best to hire a professional with experience in the brand of window that you have.
Drip Caps
If you are experiencing moisture around your window, it might be the moment to purchase new drip caps. This L-shaped flashing is placed on the top of the window following installation but before siding. It helps to direct water away from your frame. It's an easy project that will prevent moisture damage, and help you save in maintenance costs later on.
Install a dam at the end of the window cap flashing to prevent water from getting into the trim at the end. Utilize a pair of Tin snips and make the small "flap". This will prevent rain from rushing across the edges of the flashing into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been made with an end dam that is ready 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 your new drip cap, make sure that you also put the head flashing under the sheathing above it. This is the same flashing used under your J channel on the outside trim. It is a good idea to avoid tape covering the entire length of head flashing and only seal the corners.
The head flashing is cut on each corner at a 45-degree angle to create the appearance of a small flap. It is then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This creates a small gap for water to flow through the WRB into the sheathing of the house that is above the window.
You can seal the top of your drip cap after you have secured it to the sheathing. This will stop the moisture from getting into the wood of your housewrap and window sills, as well as into the siding that is above the window. Be aware that moisture could cause structural issues and wood rot, therefore it is best to prevent moisture from entering the house.
Sash Weights
A window's weights (also called sash weights or sash lines) balance the sashes and keep them from moving too much when you open them. The weights themselves may need to be replaced or they may be tangled, and need to be untangled. Counter balances might also need to be replaced.
Pam examines the outside of the window first, to make sure there aren't any visible damage or rots that require to be dealt with prior to beginning the work. If there are visible damages, she will have to do the necessary repairs prior to trying to restore the windows.
She begins by removing the interior sash stops and the parting stops on each side of the window. This requires cutting the paint line on both sides of the stop for the interior sash with a utility knife before taking it off using a woodworking tool. Pam says this step is essential since if you try to pound the stops away with a mallet, it could cause cracks or even splits. She suggests a small hand-held woodworking tool with a narrow blade.
After the stops have been removed, she's able to remove the sashes themselves. She removes the bottom sash first, and then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords before taking them out, so they can move easily. She can then pull the cord and locate the hooks made of metal that are connected to each sash. Most of the time, they're worn out and need to be replaced. She then pulls an old sashweight from its pocket, and then screws in a new one.
She checks the weights by weighing the sash using a scale to see how much it weighs. Then she replaces it with an alternative that is equal to the weight of the sash. Then she repeats the process for the other sash to make sure it's properly balanced. She applies a level after the sashes have been re-installed to make sure they're plumb. She also lubricates the cords in order to allow them to move more easily, and tightens the counter-balance hooks.