Home Window Repair
A pebble from the lawnmower or a large glass of wine set on the coffee table with a glass top, or a shattered window are only a few problems that could be affecting your windows at home.
Fortunately, these issues are often fixed by yourself without having to call for a professional. These easy fixes won't win your home any beauty contests, but they'll keep your windows in tip-top condition.
Broken Panes
A strong wind can break the window panes, making you exposed to weather. It's not as complicated as it may seem and replacing a single pane is less expensive than buying a new window. With a few tools and some attention to detail it is possible to replace a broken window pane quickly and effectively.
Before you begin work begin, put on the safety glasses and clean the area around the window of glass splinters as well as glass chards. Clean the frame and remove any old paint or varnish from the wood. If you have a sash made from metal with saddle bars, you need to remove them too. Next, put on a knife and slowly pry the trim away from the window frames. Be sure not to pierce the lead of the current pane, and don't try to break the glass too much.
If you are using a brand new pane, it is best to cut it in a shop for hardware. This will ensure that the glass is the proper size. You must subtract 1/8 of an inch from the actual size of the opening in order to accommodate the glass. This is because wood expands and contracts.
Glazier's points and glazing putty are used to keep most single pane windows in place. Apply a large amount of glaziers putty around the broken glass on the frame of the wood. Incorporate glazier's facets into the putty approximately every six inches. This will hold the window in place and permit you to reseal the frame later.
Linseed can be used to moisten your finger and then run it across the wood surface before applying any putty. This will lubricate the putty and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is limited in its shelf life and can dry out over time, so be sure to add a few drops of Linseed oil to extend its life. Once the putty has a good amount of moisture it is time to begin repairing your window.
Broken Seals
Rubber used to seal double pane windows is prone to wear out over time. This makes the window more vulnerable to moisture, which can compromise its function and allowing in cold or warm humidity. The first sign of a broken seal is condensation or fog between the two glass panes. A noticeable temperature difference between the outside and inside your home is another sign. A broken seal can cause your windows to appear blurred or appear distorted as the sealed gas escapes.
A window replacement is the only way to restore your windows back to their original condition. Fortunately, many modern double-paned windows are backed by warranties and can be replaced at no additional cost to the homeowner.
When your windows are under warranty, it is important to avail this opportunity immediately to save money on the cost of a complete replacement. The warranty will cover all costs for labor and materials to repair or replace your windows.
Although you can repair windows yourself, the process is complex and requires special tools. The best choice is to contact a professional window installer. They will take out and clean your windows, ensuring that they are properly glazed and insulated and protect your home from moisture, cold air, and the scorching sun.
A window replacement can also help you save money on your energy bills. By replacing older windows with double paned ones will help you save on energy bills for cooling and heating. Furthermore, modern windows offer higher insulation and offer the most comfortable living space. The only downside to replacing windows is the upfront cost, but this could be offset by the long-term savings on your electric bills.
Sashes That Won't Open
A sash that isn't opening is more than just an inconvenience. It could be a danger. The sash can fall down at any time, causing harm to anything on the sill including pets and children. Double-hung and single-hung windows include balancing mechanisms that keep the sash out of the jambs. The issue could be that the sash isn't properly connected to these mechanisms, or it might simply need to be reset or relocked.
Start by testing if the window will move. If it isn't moving you can try putting an instrument that is placed on the rail where the lower and upper sashes join to break them apart. If the window does move, take off the sash and set it on a surface to get access to the sides. If the sash's spline is loose in one or two places, you can use a utility knife to break it up at the corners. If the spline has been torn or broken off entirely, you'll need to replace it.
If the sash is stuck, you might need to take off the front stop trim piece. Hardware stores sell special tools to do this. A putty blade can also be a good option. You'll also need to score the seal of paint around the sash channels using your cutting tool, and then remove screws that hold the stops in the frame. Once this is done you'll be able to lift the sash out of the frame and move it properly.
If the sash stays stuck, the balance shoe may have slid down to the bottom of frame. It's simple to fix this way: mark the location of the hinge channel and unscrew. Fill upvc window repairs with woodfiller or epoxy and smooth them out before installing the channel. Once the hinge channel is back in place, simply relock the balance pin by moving it into the "U" position. Reposition the sash so that it is aligned with the balance, and then check the window.
Wood Rot
Wood rot can cause structural damage to a home. Wet and dry rot are two of numerous forms. In both cases the damage is caused by the combination of moisture and fungus. Dry and wet decay can be treated however, it is best to stop them at the source. Property owners can look for the presence of rot in areas likely to become damp, like outside window frames, timber joists and basement subfloors. They should also inspect the for cracks or gaps.
If a hole is discovered the area must be cleaned and filled with a water-resistant timber filler. After the wood has dried it can be stained to match the surroundings. It is crucial to test the stain on a small area of the filler material prior to applying it. This will ensure that the stain doesn't change color, corrode or otherwise alter the finished appearance of your woodwork.
Wet rot can be identified by its musty odor that is similar to the smell of rotting soil. It is also softer and easier to feel than wood that is not infected. Dry rot, on the other hand is more difficult to detect. This kind of fungus attacks the cells in timber and causes them to break down and then disintegrate.
Dry rot is usually more difficult to repair than wet rot due to the fact that it can penetrate deeper into the material. It can be avoided, however, by identifying and fixing the cause of moisture, such as a leak or damp that is penetrating. It's also helpful to regularly clear gutters of obstructions to avoid a buildup of water that could cause leaks in the house or a basement that is flooded.
The risk of rot can be reduced by keeping basements and crawlspaces dry and by using dehumidifiers. They should also make sure to regularly clean the sealant or caulking around windows and doors to prevent water from getting into gaps. They must also replace any cracked or damaged timbers.