The Hidden Secrets Of Window Repairs

Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore

If your window isn't opening and closing smoothly This could be an indication of an issue with the seal. Heat-induced expansions or contractions can damage seals on double pane windows over time, allowing dirt and moisture to get into.

Wood rot can also be found in window frames and sills. Epoxy wood filler is a great way to save money on expensive repairs.

Chips and cracks

A cracked window can be risky. It exposes the window to further water and breakage, which could lead to a problem with mold. Repair any chips or cracks promptly to keep your windows in good shape and your family safe.

The most frequent items that could break your window are rock chips, pebbles dropped by the car in front of you, or even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no, that's not an actual plant, it's a bug). But don't fret as these cracks can be repaired.

This repair method is suitable for single-pane household glass and double-pane windows with cracks only in one glass pane. This method isn't applicable to windshields that require a special 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. Then apply a pin or thumbtack to remove any glass fragments that are loose in the crack. You can also use acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and ensure that the repair material is adhered correctly.

Some methods suggest that a repair will be nearly invisible. While this is the case for certain kinds of repairs however, it's not a practical goal for many, particularly for small cracks in the glass. Repairing these cracks can to prevent them from becoming bigger problems, and may even stop them from spreading.

If you're looking to have an invisible crack, you can find a repair kit that uses super glue that is clear to repair the damage. This kind of glue won't expand when it dries and will not cause further damage to the crack. Be sure to study the instructions thoroughly for your specific product to make the best decision.

You can cover a crack using clear nail polish to offer temporary relief. This can serve as a sealer, and slow down the process of repairing the crack. It's crucial to apply the polish just a bit away from the edges of the crack to avoid damaging the integrity of the windshield.

Sashes that aren't moving

Many old windows are difficult to open because of damaged or swollen wood or because the balance systems that allow them to move up and down can break. However, often the issue is something simpler, like dirt or other debris that has gummed up the mechanisms. It may be that it needs to be cleaned or lubricated.

The first step is to unhook the frame from the sash. This can be done with the help of a putty knife, and a little patience. Score the paint between the sashstop and the jamb first, and then carefully pull the two pieces apart. Be careful not to damage the sash stop or jamb, and set the pieces aside to protect them.

After removing the sash, you'll be able access the pocket piece as well as 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 can be similar to being difficult to move as the top sash, however, it's also somewhat more difficult. After you've got it down completely you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and lock your balance shoe (the small box that is located on the bottom of the window) to ensure it is able to support the weight of the sash.

If your sash isn't able to stay up, you may have to replace the balance system or sash. It's typically much easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are available from many different vendors and are inexpensive. After you've replaced the balance system or sash, you can move the sash and test it to see if it works properly.

The sash tilting pin can also be removed or fall out during cleaning. If you are handy, you can fix this yourself. However it is recommended to only apply it to older windows that are safe to disassemble. If not, it's better to call in an expert who is familiar with the specific type of window you have.

Drip Caps

If you're experiencing dampness around your windows, it could be the time to upgrade your drip caps. The L-shaped flashing piece is placed on top of your window after it's installed but before siding is put up and helps direct water away from the frame. This simple project can help to prevent damage from moisture and help you save money on maintenance costs.

The addition of an end dam to your window cap flashing may also stop water from entering at the ends of the trim. Simply use  repair double glazed windows  of Tin snips to make an insignificant "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold will prevent rain from falling off the edges of the flashing and down into the wood framing.

MS Windows and Doors also offers drip caps that have been made with an end dam. These drip caps 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, be sure to also install the head flashing underneath the sheathing over it. This is the same flashing you'll find under the j channel on the exterior 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 at each corner at 45 degrees to create the appearance of a small flap. It's then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This creates a small exit for any water that could be able to pass through the WRB and into the sheathing for the house above the window.

After you've secured the drip cap to the sheathing, you can apply caulk to the top edge of the cap. This will stop the moisture from soaking into the wood of your window sill and housewrap, as well as into the siding above the window. Be aware that moisture could cause structural problems and wood rot, therefore it is important to stop moisture from getting into your home.

Sash Weights

The weights on windows (also called sashweights, or sashlines) help balance the sashes, preventing them from moving when they are opened. Weights could need to be replaced or untangled in the event that they are tangled. It is also possible that the counter balances have to be replaced.

Pam looks at the outside of the window first, to make sure there are no visible damages or rots that must be addressed prior to starting the work. If there is, she'll have repair the damage prior to attempting to restore the windows.

She starts by removing the stopper parting and interior sash stop on both sides of the window. To do this, you'll need to score the paint line using a utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stop and then pry it off using the help of a wooden tool. Pam states that this step is important because when you use mallets to remove stops, they can break or split. She suggests using the smallest woodworking tool that has a small blade.

Once the stops have been removed, she's now ready to remove the sashes themselves. She removes the bottom sash, then the top. Pam is able to lubricate the sash cords to make them move smoothly. When the sashes are untied, she can remove the sash cord and locate the metal hooks that connect to each sash weight. These are usually worn out and need to be replaced. Then, she takes one of the old sash weights out of its pocket and replaces it with an entirely new one.

The sash is weighed on an instrument and then checks the weights. Then, she replaces the weight with a new one that matches the weight of the sash. She repeats this process for the other sash in order to ensure that it's balanced. After the sashes are placed back into place She uses a level to check that they're in the right place. She also lubricates the cords in order to allow them to slide more easily, and tightens the counter-balance hooks.