Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. However, there are instances when replacing windows that are old is more cost-effective.
Stray baseballs and projectiles often cause cracks or holes in windows. These are usually easy fixable using the correct tools.
If the frame of the unit is damaged it is better to replace the whole unit.
Glass that is cracked or broken
A bad storm, the pebble from your lawnmower or even the vase you set down too hard could crack the glass of your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can prevent the cracks from getting any worse and save you the expense of replacing glass.
The first step in any repair is to take off the glass that is broken. Wearing gloves, carefully rip off any trim, molding or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. You may have to use an utility knife to remove any glass fragments that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After removing the glass clean the surface and surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the adhesive used to hold the new glass from spilling out and causing damage. Make sure the glass is properly fitted. If the new glass is larger than the previous piece, you will need to use a circular or mitersaw to reduce it.
After your surface is clean, find a glass adhesive that's specifically made for windows and follow the directions on how to apply it. Then, you can reinstall the glass inside your window sash. Avoid flexing or moving the glass during this step; it can cause the crack to get deeper.
You can also apply products like Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill in the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted ones. This type of fix won't completely cover the crack. It is not suitable for windows that are seen from the outside.
Another option is epoxy, which is a little more time-consuming to apply but offers the most durable seal and can make the cracked window nearly invisible. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area before applying epoxy. You'll also need to be ready to address any sudden weather changes that might cause the crack to grow and then widen again. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair methods or if your glass is particularly large or has a double-paned glass It's recommended to call in the professionals for a repair that is done by a professional.
Sashes that won't open
A window that does not stay up for long can be more than a nuisance; it could also be a risk. Single- and double-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to help keep the sash from moving upwards and down within the jambs. Nevertheless the mechanism may be damaged or removed. Check the pivot bar as well as balance shoes to see whether either of them has dislodged. You will have to replace the bar pivot and balance shoe if they've become dislodged.
Moisture in the windows sash can trigger cycles of expansion or contraction. In time, this may weaken the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. You may be able to fix this without removing the window by running a utility knife around the joints of the frame and then prying them open. If your wood appears to be swelling, it's typically because of a lack 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 that can cause windows that aren't opening. Try reattaching the cord using pliers and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord is completely damaged, you'll need to replace it.
Paint can also cause windows to become bounded and become difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of double-hung windows has been sealed with paint it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint using a utility knife and trying to move it. If this does not work then you'll need to take out the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop or parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).
The sash shoes used in single-hung windows are usually constructed of either metal or plastic. These shoes come with a U-shaped slot them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need a screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing sideways (Photo 2). Then, slide the sash up and down and check if the window works normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just ugly, it can also cause serious harm to the structural integrity of the area of the home it has infested. The fungus responsible for it to feed on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy and mush. The best way to avoid rot is to make sure your home is well maintained and that areas with exposure to the elements are protected. Even if you're vigilant the slightest lapse in painting or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose your window frames as well as porch columns and other parts of the home to decay organisms.
Most wood decay is caused by excessive moisture content, and can be caused by rainwater seepage, condensation or rising dampness. The latter can occur when damp-proofing course is not installed or is damaged, or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step to repair rot involves removing the old material. It's generally easy to do using a pry bar however a combination hammer/chisel might be needed for the most difficult spots. After the rotten wood has been removed, the gap needs to be caulked and filled. There are a myriad of wood fillers available and the most effective one will depend on the amount of work you wish to complete, the depth of the hole is and how much of the original frame can be preserved.
If the rot is too deep for a simple filler then you'll have to replace the damaged area. You can engage an expert to complete this task or do it yourself. This is a more complicated project however, and requires a good carpentry skills to get the job done correctly. If you're unsure about your ability to do this yourself you should seek out a professional.
Repairing rotting wood is possible, but it is much more efficient (and less expensive) to avoid the issue at the beginning. The best preventative measures are sealing cracks around the windows, scraping caulk off and repainting it, as well as installing drip edges on the roof. Also, you should look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and think about the use of a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels under control.
Dirty Seals
One of the most obvious signs of shrinking window seals is water that drips around or beneath a window. Sometimes this is easy to spot, but often it is hidden in a wall and harder to find. This can cause soft wood, mold and even structural damage to your RV. Regular inspections and cleaning are the best way to protect windows. You can find soft spots by pressing gently on the seal trim while checking.
Fogged windows can also be a sign of a failing seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can detract from the appearance of your RV.
The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand and in colder temperatures they contract. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and keeping it under cover whenever possible. Also, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can help keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals on your windows.
Other factors that can cause window seal failure is scrubbing the seals with brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals which break down the rubber. This can make the seals weak and susceptible to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh window cleaners and to keep the windows' seals and sash tracks clean with a dry brush.
Performing these routine maintenance tasks is the most affordable and efficient way to protect your RV's windows. It also gives you a chance to assess the condition of the window seals and make repairs, which can save you from costly future issues.
It's more expensive have your window seals lubricated or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, however it's less expensive than repairing water damage that is caused by faulty sealing. If you're willing to put in a few hours of work, then this is a DIY project that can prolong the life of your RV's windows and save you money in the long term.