Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't able to open and close easily, it could be a sign of a failed seal. Expansions and contractions caused by heat over time can damage seals between double panes allowing moisture, dirt and energy loss.
Wood rot can also be found in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent method to cut costs on costly repairs.
Cracks and Chips
A cracked window is not only ugly, it can be a risk. It exposes the glass to damage and moisture, which could cause mold problems. If you want to keep your family secure and your windows in good condition it is essential to repair any cracks or chips immediately.
The most common things that could crack your window are rock chips, pebbles thrown by the car in front of you, or even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no, that's not an actual plant, it's a bug). Cracks that are caused by these can be fixed.
This repair method is suitable for single-pane household glass, and double-pane windows, which have cracks only in one glass pane. This method isn't applicable to windshields that require a specific tool to inject resin into the crack and create a vacuum between the glass layers.
First clean the area in which you're planning to repair the crack with glass cleaner. Utilize a pin or thumbtack to remove any loose glass fragments from the crack. You can also use rubbing alcohol or acetone to clean the surface and ensure that the repair material is adhered correctly.
Some methods claim a repaired crack is almost undetectable. This is true for certain types of repairs but not for all, particularly small cracks. Repairing these cracks can stop them from becoming bigger problems, and may even stop the spread of these cracks.
If you want to have cracks that are completely invisible, then you need to find an item that is made of super glue that is clear. This kind of super glue will not expand when it dries, and won't increase the severity of the crack. Just be sure to study the instructions thoroughly for the specific product you are using to make the best decision.
You can cover a crack with clear nail polish for a temporary solution. This can act as an adhesive and slow down the progression of the chip or crack. It is essential to keep the polish a little outside of the crack edges to prevent damaging the integrity.
Sashes that don't move
Many older windows are difficult to open because of damaged or swollen wood or because the cords and balance systems that move them upwards and downwards can break. Often, the problem is much simpler. It could be 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 frame from the sash. This can be accomplished with a putty blade and some patience. Score the paint between the sashstop and the jamb first, and then carefully pull the two pieces apart. Be careful not to break the sash stop or jamb, and then set the pieces aside to keep them safe.
After you have removed the sash, will be able to access the pocket piece and front window stops. You can remove them with the help of a utility knife and then lower the top sash to the sill. The bottom sash isn't as challenging to move as the top however getting it all the way down may be a problem. Once you've lowered the sash all the way, use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock your balance shoe (the tiny box that's at the bottom of the window) to allow it to support the weight of the sash.
If your sash still doesn't remain up, you might require replacing the balance system or sash. window repairman is usually simpler than you might believe, since replacement parts are fairly inexpensive and available from a number of different vendors. After you've replaced the balance system, or sash you can move the sash around and test it to determine whether it functions correctly.
The sash tilting pin can be removed, or be slid out when cleaning. This is easy to fix if you're handy however, it's best to only try this on older windows that are safe to take apart. If not, it's better to seek out an expert who is familiar with the specific type of window you have.
Caps with drip Caps
If you're experiencing water infiltration around your window, it might be time to consider investing in an additional drip cap. The L-shaped flashing piece is placed on top of your window after it's put in but before siding is put up and helps direct water away from the frame. This simple project can help keep moisture from causing damage and help you save money on maintenance costs.
Adding an end dam to the window cap flashing could also help prevent water infiltration at the end of the trim. Simply use a pair tin snips to form a small "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold will stop rain from rolling down the sides of the flashing, which will then fall into the wood framing.
MS Windows and Doors also provides drip caps that have been made with an end dam. These preformed drip cap are available in a variety of colors and can be added to your window when you purchase your window.
When you're installing your new drip cap, make sure you install the head flashing beneath the sheathing over it. This is the same type of flashing that's used under the J channel on your exterior trim. It's a good idea avoid tape covering the entire length of head flashing and only cover the corners.
The head flashing is slit on each corner at a 45 degree angle to create an elongated flap. The flap is then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This opens up a small space 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 along the top edge of the cap. This will stop moisture from penetrating the wood of the window sill, housewrap and siding above the window. Be aware that moisture could cause structural issues and wood rot, so it is best to prevent moisture from entering your home.
Sash Weights
A window's weights (also called sash weights, or sash lines) are used to balance the sashes, and stop them from swaying excessively when you open them. The weights may need to be replaced, or they may be tangled and require to be untangled. It's also possible that the counter balances will need to be replaced.
Pam examines the exterior of the window first to ensure there aren't any visible damage or rots that must be dealt with prior to beginning the work. If there is, she'll need to do the repairs before trying to restore the windows.
She starts by removing the sash stops on the interior and the parting stops on each side of the window. To accomplish this, you'll need to score the paint line with an utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stop and then pull it away with an instrument made of wood. Pam says this step is crucial since if you try to pound the stops off using a mallet could cause cracks or even splits. She suggests using a small woodworking tool that has a narrow blade.
After the stops have been removed, she's able to remove the sashes themselves. She takes off the sash at the bottom, and then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords before taking them out, so that they move smoothly. She then pulls the cord to locate the hooks made of metal that are connected to each sash. They're usually worn out and need to be replaced. She then takes an old sashweight out of its pocket, and screws in a new one.
She weighs the sash on a scale and examines the weights. She replaces the old weight with one equal to the weight of the sash. The process is repeated for the second sash to ensure that it is balanced. She employs a level after the sashes have been put back in place to ensure they are plumb. She also makes sure that the cords are lubricated to let them move easily, and re-tightens the counter balance hooks.