Home Window Repair
A lawnmower's pebble or a large glass of wine set on a coffee table with a glass top or a broken window are just a few of the issues that can plague windows in your home.
Fortunately, these problems can be solved by yourself without having to call in a professional. These quick fixes won't win your home any beauty contests, but they can keep your windows in top shape.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or strong wind can damage the window's pane, making your home vulnerable to elements. But replacing a single pane isn't as difficult as you might think and it's a less expensive option than purchasing a new window or hiring a professional. It is possible to replace a broken pane of glass quickly and easily using just a few tools.
Wear safety goggles before you begin. Clean the area around the glass window to remove any glass splinters or glass chards. Clean the frame and take off any varnish or paint from the wood. If you have a sash made of metal with saddle bars, take them off. them too. Then, you can put on an utility knife and remove the trim from the window frames. Be careful not to damage any lead in the existing glass, and be careful not to break it too much.
If you're using a fresh pane, you can have it cut at a hardware store to ensure it's the correct size. You should subtract 1/8 of an inch from the actual size of the opening to allow for the glass. This is because wood expands and contracts.
Most single pane windows are held in place by a glaze putty and tiny metal clips referred to as glazier's point. Apply a liberal amount of glazier's putty to the frame of wood around one side of the glass that has been broken. Incorporate glazier's facets into the putty approximately every six inches. This will secure the window in position and allow you to reseal your frame later.
Before you apply any putty, dampen your finger with linseed oil and run it across the wood's surface. This will help to lubricate the glue and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is limited in its shelf life and will dry out over time, so add some drops of Linseed oil to prolong its life. After the putty is dampened, you can begin fixing your window.
Broken Seals
Over time, the rubber used to seal double-paned windows may break down. This can open the windows open to moisture, which impedes its function and allows it to let in warm or cold humidity. The first sign that a seal has broken is condensation or fog between the two panes. Another indication is a difference in the temperature of your home and the outside. A broken seal can cause windows to appear hazy or distorted as the vacuum-sealed argon gas escapes.
A window replacement is the only way to restore your windows back to their original state. Fortunately, many modern double-paned windows are covered by warranties and can be replaced without cost to homeowners.
When your windows are under warranty, you'll want to avail this opportunity immediately to save on the cost of a complete replacement. The warranty will cover all costs for labor and materials to repair or replace your windows.
While you can replace your windows at home, the process is complicated and requires special tools. Contacting a professional installer is the best choice. They'll handle all of the removal, cleaning and reinstallation of your windows while making sure they're properly glazed and insulated to protect your home from moisture hot sun and cold air.
Window replacement can also save you money on your energy bills. Replacing older windows with new double pane windows will significantly reduce your cooling and heating costs. Additionally, the insulation of newer windows is better and they create a more comfortable environment in your home. The only drawback to the window replacement project is the initial cost. However, this can be offset by the savings you'll see on your electricity bill over time.
Sashes that won't open
A sash window that doesn't open is more than a nuisance - it can be dangerous. The sash can fall down unexpectedly, damaging any item on the sill, including pets and children. Single and double-hung window designs have balancing mechanisms to keep the sash away from the jambs. The problem may be that the sash isn't properly connected to these mechanisms, or it could just need to be reset or relocked.
Start by testing if the window moves. If it doesn't move, try using an instrument that is placed on the rail where the upper and lower sashes meet to pull them apart. If the window does move, remove the sash and set it on a surface to access the sides. If the spline of the sash appears to be loose only in some spots it is possible to use a utility knife to cut the spline apart at the corners. If the spline is damaged or broken off entirely and you need to replace it.
If the sash is still stuck, you may need to take off the front stop trim piece. There are special tools in hardware stores that can help you do this, however a putty knife will also work. With your cutting tool, cut the paint seal that surrounds the sash channels. Remove the screws that hold the stops in place. After this is done, you'll be able to lift the sash off the frame and then reposition it properly.
If the sash stays stuck and the balance shoe is not moving, it could have fallen to the bottom of the frame. It's simple to reset this: Mark the position of the hinge channel, then unscrew. Fill the screw holes with epoxy or woodfiller and smooth them out before reinstalling channel. Lock the balance pin after the hinge channel is reinstated by putting it in the "U-position". Reposition the sash until it is aligned with the balance, and then verify the window.
Wood Rot
Wood rot isn't just an eyesore It can also cause serious structural damage to your property. Dry and wet rot are two of the many types. In both instances the damage is caused by the combination of moisture and fungus. Both wet and dried rot can be repaired. But, it's better to stop the cause. Property owners should look for rot in areas that are at risk of getting damp, such as windows outside, timber beams, and basement subfloors. They should also inspect the wood where there are cracks or gaps.
If you find a hole, it should be cleaned using a water-resistant wood filler and then filled. After the wood has dried and is stained, it must be repainted to match the surrounding material. It is important to test a stain on wood on a small portion of the filler material before applying it. This will ensure that the stain does not alter color, corrode, or alter the appearance of your woodwork.
Wet rot can be detected by its musty smell that's like that of soil that is rotting. It is also soft and more pliable than wood that is not infected. Dry rot however it can be difficult to recognize. This type of fungus eats the cells in timber, causing them to disintegrate and break down.
Dry rot can be more difficult to repair as it can penetrate into the deeper levels. It can be prevented however, by identifying and fixing the source of moisture, for instance leaks or damp that penetrate. It is also beneficial to clean out gutters regularly of obstructions to avoid a accumulation of water that can lead to leaks in the house or a flooded basement.
Homeowners can also reduce the chance of rot by keeping windows closed and utilizing a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors should also ensure to regularly clean the sealant or caulking around windows and doors to stop water from entering gaps. Additionally they should replace damaged or damaged timbers.