Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money
Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing windows is more cost-effective.
Cracks or holes in the glass of windows are often caused by stray balls and projectiles. These are usually easy fixes with the right tools.
If the frame of the unit is rotten it is better to replace the entire unit.
Broken or cracked glass
A bad storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase set down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately just a little time and effort can stop the cracks from getting any worse and save you the cost of replacement glass.
First, you must remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully remove any trim, molding or glazing putty holding the glass in place. upvc repairs may need to use a utility knife to get rid of any glass fragments that have gotten stuck in the frame.
After removing the window clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will prevent the glue used to put the glass back to its original position from leaking and causing further damage. Make sure that the glass you are replacing is a good fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll need cut it down with circular saw or miter saw.
Now that your surface is clean, locate an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for window glass and follow the instructions on how to apply it. After that, reinstall the glass into the window sash. Avoid flexing the glass or moving it during this step. This could cause the cracks to get deeper.
In the end, you can use a product like Loctite Super Glue Glass to fill the crack and seal it. It's formulated to work with all kinds of glass, including tinted windows. This kind of fix will not completely hide the crack. It's not suited for windows that can be seen from the outside.
Epoxy is another option. It's more laborious, but it will provide the most secure seal and can make the glass that has cracked appear almost unnoticeable. It is important to thoroughly clean the glass and its surrounding area prior to applying epoxy. Also, you'll need be prepared for any abrupt weather changes that could cause the crack to expand once more. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair methods, or your cracked glass is particularly large or has double-paned, it's best to contact a professional for a professional repair.
Sashes That Willn't Open
A window that doesn't stay up is more than just a nuisance. It can also be a risk. Single-hung and double-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms that stop the sash from moving. Nevertheless the mechanism can be damaged or disconnected. Check the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both has become dislodged. If they have, you'll need to replace them for the sash to stay in place.
Moisture in the window frames of the sash can cause cycles of contraction or expansion. This could cause the frame joints to become looser over time and stick. It is possible to repair this without taking down the window by running a utility knife around the frame's joints and prying them open. If your wood appears swollen it's usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your house which allows water to enter the frame.
A sash cable that has snapped is another common cause of a window not opening. It is possible to reconnect the cord using pliers, and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you'll need to replace it.
Paint can also make windows difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel on double-hung windows has been sealed with paint it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint using an utility knife and attempting to move it. If this fails, you will need remove the sash, and then cut the seam between the sash and stop, strip of separation or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).
Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made from plastic or metal. These shoes have a U-shaped slot in them that is locked when the shoe is placed in its normal position in the sash. To unlock the shoe, use a screwdriver to turn the slot until it is facing sideways (Photo 2). Then you can move the sash up and down and check whether the window functions normally.
Rotting Wood
Wood rot isn't just ugly, it poses a real danger to the structural integrity of the portion of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it to feed on moisture, turning wooden beams, joists and walls into a sloppy and mush. The best way to avoid decay is to ensure that your home is maintained and that areas that have exposure to the elements are properly protected. Even if you're vigilant, one missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose windows as well as porch columns and other components of the house to decay organisms.
The majority of wood rot is the result of excessive moisture content, which could be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen if damp proofing courses aren't installed or damaged, or when internal materials like plaster and drywall are impacted by leaky pipes, appliances or fixtures.
The first step to repairing decay is to remove the old material. It is usually easy with a pry bar, however the combination of hammer and chisel might be needed for the most stubborn spots. After the rotten pieces wood are removed, the gap has to be filled and sealed. There are a variety of wood fillers available and the best one will depend on the amount of work you wish to complete, the depth of the hole is and how much of the frame can be saved.
If the rot has spread out too far for a filler work, you will need to replace the damaged part. You can engage a professional to do this or do it yourself. This is a more complex project however, and requires expert carpentry skills to get the job done right. If you aren't sure about your DIY abilities It is recommended to call a professional.
While repairing rotting wood is always an option, it's far easier (and less expensive) to prevent it from happening in the first place. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk, and installing drip edges on the roof to prevent water from splashing up onto exterior trim. You should also look for signs of an excessive amount of humidity around your window and consider installing a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels in check.
Dirty Seals
Probably the most obvious sign of shrinking window seals is the water that drips from or under a window. It's easy to spot, but it's usually hidden behind a wall. This can lead to soft wood, mould, and even structural damage to your RV. The best method to guard your windows is to keep them clean by performing regular inspection and cleaning. Gently pressing against the trim on the seal and visually examining it will help you spot soft spots before they can cause water damage.
Windows that are stained with fog are another indication of a leaky seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can detract from your RV's aesthetics.
The weather is a major factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand while in colder weather, they shrink. You can lessen the impact by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and storing it in a covers whenever you can. A simple car wash can to keep the salt from damaging the rubber seals that are on your windows.
Another reason that can cause sealing failure is rubbing seals using brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that cause the rubber to break down. This can make the seals brittle and prone to cracking. Avoid harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks clean with a clean toothbrush.
Doing these maintenance routines is the least expensive and most efficient method to safeguard your RV's windows. It also gives you the opportunity to check the seals on your windows and make any necessary repairs.
It's more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced using 303 Protectant spray. However, it's still cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by poor sealing. If you're willing to commit just a few hours it is a DIY project that can prolong the lifespan of your RV's windows, and save you money in the end.