Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't closing and opening smoothly, this could indicate a failing seal. Expansions or contractions caused by heat can damage seals on double pane windows over time, allowing dirt and moisture to get into.
Wood rot can also be found in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent method to cut costs on costly repairs.
windows repair and cracks
A damaged window could be risky. It exposes the glass to more damage and moisture, which can lead to a mold problem. If you want to ensure that your family is safe and your windows intact it is essential to repair any cracks or chips as soon as possible.
Rock chips, pebbles as well as Dolichovespula Maculata seeds can break your windows. (No, that is not an actual plant. It's actually a bug.) Cracks that are caused by these can be fixed.
This repair method works for single-pane household glass and double-pane windows, which have cracks only in one glass pane. This method isn't applicable to windshields, which require a special tool to inject resin into the crack and create a vacuum between the glass layers.
Clean the area where the crack will be repaired using glass cleaner. Then apply the thumbtack or pin to remove any loose shards of glass in the crack. You can also use rubbing alcohol or acetone to clean the surface and make sure that the repair material sticks correctly.
Some methods claim a repaired crack is nearly invisible. While this is the case for certain types of repairs but it's not a feasible target for all, especially for small cracks within the glass. However, repairing cracks can help stop them from growing into larger problems and could stop them from spreading further.
If you're looking for an unnoticeable crack, look for repair kits that use super glue that is clear to repair the damage. This kind of glue won't expand when it is dried and won't cause more damage to the crack. Make sure you read the instructions for the product you are using before making the decision.
For a solution that is more temporary, you can try covering a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This will act as a sealer, and slow the process of repairing the crack. It's important to keep the polish a little away from the crack edges to prevent damaging the integrity.
Sashes that aren't moving
Many older windows are difficult to open due the wood's swelling or decay, or because the cords and balance systems that move them up and down can break. Often, the problem is much more straightforward. It could be due to dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It may be that it needs to be cleaned or lubricated.
The first step is to take off the sash. This can be done with the help of a putty knife, and a little patience. First, you need to score the paint between the sash stop and jamb Then, carefully pry them apart. Put the pieces aside to ensure they do not get damaged.
After removing the sash you will be able to access the pocket piece and the front window stops. These can be removed with an utility knife, and when they are removed, you should be capable of lowering the top sash all way to the sill. The bottom sash can be just as difficult to move as the top one, however, it's also slightly more difficult. Once you've lowered the sash completely using a screwdriver with a flat head to reset and relock your balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of the window) so it can support the weight of the sash.
If your sash isn't able to stay up, you may have to replace the balance system or the sash. This is usually easier to do than you believe, since replacement parts are quite inexpensive and available from a variety of vendors. After you have replaced the balance system, or sash you can examine the sash and determine if it is working properly.
The sash tilting pin can also be removed or be slid out during cleaning. This is simple to fix if you're handy enough however, it's best to only try this on older windows that are safe to remove. If you're not sure, you should call in an expert who has experience with the specific type of window you own.
Drip Caps
If you're experiencing moisture infiltration around your windows, it could be time to consider investing in an additional drip cap. The L-shaped flashing is put on the top of the window following installation but before siding. It helps to direct water away from the frame. This quick project can help keep moisture from causing damage and save you money on maintenance costs.
A dam at the end of the window cap flashing could also prevent water infiltration at the ends of the trim. Simply use a pair tin snips to form a small "flap" on both sides of the trim. This will prevent rain from rolling across the edges of the flashing and into the wood framing.
You can also purchase drip caps from MS Windows and Doors that already have been made with an end dam for you. These drip caps are available in various shades and can be added to your order when you make your window purchase.
While you're installing the new drip cap, be sure you install the head flashing underneath the sheathing that is above it. This is the same type of flashing that is used to create the j channel on your exterior trim. It is best to cover only the edges of the head flashing and not the entire length.
The head flashing is slit at each corner at 45 degrees to create a small flap. It's then folded down and skipped-taped again to the sheathing. This creates a small exit to let any water get through the WRB and into the house sheathing above the window.
After you've fastened the drip cap to the sheathing you can apply caulk to the top edge of the cap. This will prevent moisture from getting into the wood of the window sill, the housewrap and siding that is above the window. It's important to remember that moisture can cause wood rot and other serious structural problems, so it's always best to prevent moisture infiltration from the beginning.
Sash Weights
Weights on a window (also called sashweights or sashlines) help balance the sashes, preventing them from swaying when they are opened. The weights may need to be replaced or removed in the event that they are strung. It's also possible that the counter balances have to be replaced.
Pam examines the outside of the window first to ensure there aren't any visible damages or rots that need to be addressed before beginning the work. If there are visible damage, she will have to make the necessary repairs before attempting the restoration of the windows.
She begins by removing both the sash stops on the interior and the parts stops on either side of the window. This involves scoring the paint line on both sides of the interior sash stop using a utility knife, and taking it off using a woodworking tool. Pam states that this step is essential because if you use mallets to remove stops, they may break or split. She suggests a small hand-held woodworking tool that has a narrow blade.
After the stops have been removed, she's ready to remove the sashes themselves. She removes the bottom sash and then the top. Pam lubricates the sash cords prior pulling them out, so that they move smoothly. Once the sashes are free, she can remove the sash cord and find the metal hooks that attach to each sash weight. Most of the time, they're damaged and need to be replaced. She then pulls an old sashweight out of its pocket, and then screws in a new one.
She checks the weights by weighing the sash with a scale to see how much it weighs. Then, she replaces the weight with a new one that matches the weight of the sash. She repeats the process for the second sash to ensure it is properly balanced. She employs a level after the sashes have been re-installed to make sure they're plumb. She also lubricates the cords to allow them to slide more easily, and tightens the counter-balance hooks.