Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing windows can be more cost-effective.
Cracks or holes in the windows' glass are often caused by stray baseballs and projectiles. With the right tools, these are simple fixes.
If the window's frame is rotting it's recommended to replace the entire unit.
Broken or cracked glass
A storm that is severe or a stray piece of debris from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase pushed down too hard could crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can stop these cracks from becoming worse and reduce the cost of replacement glass.
First, you must remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim, or glazing putty that holds the glass in place. You may need to use a utility knife to get rid of any stubborn glass shards that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After removing the window clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will help prevent the glue used to put the glass back into place from leaking and causing more damage. You'll also want to ensure that the glass you're replacing is a good fit. If the new piece is bigger than the previous one, you'll need to reduce it using circular saw or miter saw.
Once your surface has been cleaned, you can apply a glass adhesive designed specifically for windows. After that, reinstall the glass inside your window sash. Avoid flexing the glass or moving it during this step. This could cause cracks to become deeper.
In the end, you can use a product like Loctite Super Glue Glass to fill the crack and seal it. It's designed to work on all types of glass including tinted ones. Be aware that this type of fix won't completely cover the crack, therefore it's not the best choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside.
Epoxy is a different alternative. It's more time-consuming, however it will provide the most secure seal and makes the glass that has cracked appear almost unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy, you'll need to clean your glass and the area around it thoroughly. You will also need to be prepared to deal with any sudden weather conditions that can cause cracks to grow. If you're not confident with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or a double-paned window is best to contact a professional to have a professional repair.
Sashes That Won't Open
A window that doesn't remain up is more than just a nuisance; it could be a risk. Double-hung and single-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms to prevent the sash from moving. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms can be damaged or disconnected. Check the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if one or both has become dislodged. If they have, you will need to replace them in order for the sash to stay in place.
Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction within the frames of sash windows made of timber. This can cause the frame joints to loosen over time and stick. It is possible to repair this issue without having to remove the window if you use a utility knife to pry the joints of the frame apart. If your wood appears to be swollen, it's typically due to a lack of flashing on the exterior of your home that allows water to enter the frame.
Another common reason for a window that won't open is a snapped sash cord. Try reattaching the cord by pulling on the cord (pliers could help) and sliding the sash back into its normal position. If the cord is damaged, you'll have to replace it.
Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of double-hung windows is closed with paint and you want to break the bond by scoring the paint with a utility knife and trying to slide it. If this doesn't work then you'll have to take off the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop, parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from plastic or metal. They feature a U shape slot that locks when the shoe is in the normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, you need an screwdriver to turn the slot so that it is facing the opposite direction (Photo 2). Then, you can slide the sash upwards and down, and then check whether the window is functioning normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot is not only unsightly; it can also cause serious harm to the structural integrity in the space it has infested. The fungus that causes it to feed on moisture, transforming wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy mush. The best way to avoid decay is to ensure your home is well maintained and that areas that have exposure to elements are properly protected. Even the best of intentions, it only takes one missed painting session, clogged gutter or a minor leak in the roof to expose the window frames or porch columns, as well as other components of your home to a myriad of decay-related organisms that could quickly destroy the structure and weaken its strength.
The majority of wood decay is the result of excessive moisture content, which can be caused by rainwater seepage, condensation or rising dampness. The latter can happen when damp proofing courses aren't installed or damaged, or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.
The first step in repairing rot involves removing the old material. It's generally easy to do this using a pry-bar, but a combination hammer/chisel might be required for the most difficult areas. Once the rotten wood is removed, the gap has to be caulked and filled. There are many wood fillers to choose from and the best one will depend on the amount of work you wish to accomplish, how deep the hole is and how much of the frame is left to be saved.
If the rot has spread too far for a filler to work, you will need to replace the damaged part. You can hire a professional to do this or do it yourself. This is a more complex project that requires carpentry expertise to complete. If you are unsure about your DIY abilities it is recommended to call a professional.
While repairing wood that has rotted is a possibility but it's much easier (and less expensive) to prevent it from happening in the beginning. The best preventative measures are sealing the cracks around windows, scraping off caulk and repainting it, and installing drip edges on the roof. Also, you should look for signs of excessive humidity around your windows, and think about a dehumidifier to keep the levels of moisture in check.
Dirty Seals
Probably the most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is water that drips down the sides or under the window. It's possible to spot, however it's often hidden behind walls. upvc window repairs near me can lead to soft wood, mold and even structural damage to your RV. The best method to guard your windows is to perform regular cleaning and inspection checks. You can find soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while inspecting.
Fogged windows are a common sign of a leaking seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from the aesthetics of your RV.
Window seals that fail are mostly caused by weather damage as the seals expand in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder ones. This issue can be cured by storing your camper underneath cover and keeping it out of the direct sunlight. A simple car wash will help keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals that are on your windows.
Another cause that can cause seal failure is rubbing seals with brushes or washrags with cleaning chemicals that degrade the rubber. This can make the seals weak and susceptible to cracking. Avoid using harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks clean with a clean toothbrush.
This is the most efficient and most affordable method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the chance to assess the condition of your window seals, and repair them, which will help prevent costly problems in the future.
It's more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced with 303 Protectant spray, but it's still cheaper than repairing water damage that is caused by faulty sealing. If you're willing to put in some time it is an easy DIY project that will greatly extend the life of your RV's windows and save you money in the long run.