Home Window Repair
A pebble from the lawnmower or a large drink set on the coffee table with a glass top or a cracked window are only a few problems that could be affecting your windows at home.
Fortunately, these problems are often fixed by yourself without having to call for a professional. These easy fixes won't be winning your home any beauty contests, but they'll keep your windows in top condition.
upvc repairs or heavy wind can damage windows, leaving 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. With just a few tools and a keen care it is possible to replace the broken window pane quickly and efficiently.
Wear safety goggles before you begin and clean the area around the glass window of any glass splinters or glass chards. Clean the frame and take off any varnish or paint from the wood. Remove the saddle bars from a steel sash. Then, you can put on a knife and slowly pry the trim away from the window frames. Be careful to not pierce the lead of the current pane, and don't attempt to break the glass too often.
If you are using a new pane, it is best to have it cut in a workshop for hardware. This will ensure that the glass is the right size. Be sure to subtract 1/8 inch from the actual size of the opening to the glass because wood expands and contracts.
The majority of single pane windows are secured by a glaze putty and tiny metal clips called glazier's points. Apply a liberal amount of glazier's putty to the wood frame around one side of the glass that has been broken. Press glazier's points into the putty around every six inches. This will keep the window in place and allow you to seal the frame later.
You can use linseed to moisten your finger and then run it over the wood surface prior to applying any putty. This will help to lubricate the glue and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty has a short shelf life and will dry out over time, so add some drops of Linseed oil to the mix to extend its lifespan. Once the putty is moist, you can begin repairing your window.
Broken Seals
Over time the rubber used to seal double-paned windows will break down. The window is then vulnerable to moisture, which can compromise its purpose and allowing it to let in warm or cold humidity. The first indication of a damaged seal is fog or condensation between the two panes of glass. Another indication is a difference in temperature between your home and the outside. A damaged seal could cause your windows to appear hazy or distorted as the vacuum-sealed gas escapes.
Window replacement is the only way for restoring your windows to their original condition. Many double-paned modern windows come with warranties and can be easily replaced by the homeowner at no additional cost.
If your windows are covered by warranty, you should make use of it whenever you can. This will save you money on a total replacement. The warranty will cover all work and materials required to repair or replace your windows.
While windows can be replaced on your own However, the process is difficult and requires specialized tools. The best solution is to call an expert window installer. They'll take care of the cleaning, removal and the reinstallation of your windows, all while ensuring that they are properly glazed and insulated to protect your home from the effects of moisture, cold air and hot sun.
A window replacement can also help you save money on your energy bills. Replacing older windows with new double pane windows can dramatically reduce your heating and cooling costs. Additionally, the newer windows feature superior insulation and provide the most comfortable living space. The only downside of replacing windows is the initial cost. However, this could be offset with the savings you can see on your electricity bill in the future.
Sashes that won't open
A sash window that doesn't open is more than an inconvenience - it could be dangerous. The sash can fall down in a sudden manner, causing damage to any item on the sill, including pets and children. Double-hung and single-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to keep the sash out of the jambs. It could be that the sash hasn't been properly connected to the mechanism or it is in need of be reset or relocked.
To fix this, start by testing the window to determine if it is moving. If it won't, use a tool at the meeting rail (where the upper and lower sashes join together) to try to pry the two sashes away. If the window moves, remove the sash from the window and place it on an un-level surface to reach the sides. If the spline of the sash is loose in a few places you can employ a utility knife cut it apart at the corners. If the spline was damaged or torn away completely, you will need to replace it.
If the sash continues to be stuck, it might be necessary to cut off the front trim piece. Hardware stores carry tools for this. A putty blade will also be useful. You'll also need to score the paint seal around the sash channels using your cutting tool, and then remove screws that keep the stops in their place. After this, you'll be able to remove the sash from its frame and reposition the sash.
If the sash is still stuck in the frame, the balance shoe could have fallen down to the bottom of the frame. It's easy to reset this: Mark the position of the hinge channel and remove the screw. Fill the screw holes with wood filler or epoxy and scrape them smooth before installing the channel. Once the hinge channel is in place, you can lock the balance pin by moving it up into the "U" position. Reposition the sash to align with the balance and try it again.
Wood Rot
Wood rot can cause structural damage to a property. Dry and wet rot are just two of the various types. Both are caused by a combination moisture and fungus. Dry and wet rots can be fixed but it's best to stop it at the source. Property owners should inspect for signs of rot on areas that are susceptible to getting damp, such as windows outside, timber beams, and basement subfloors. They should also check for cracks or gaps.
If a hole has been discovered, it should be cleaned with a water-resistant filler for wood and then filled. After the wood is dry it is then stained to match the surrounding material. It is important to test a stain on wood on a small portion of the filler material prior applying it. This will ensure that the stain doesn't alter color, corrode, or otherwise alter the look of your woodwork.
Wet rot is easily recognized by its musty odor that is similar to the smell of soil that is rotting. It is also softer and more pliable than wood that is not infected. Dry rot however, can be more difficult to recognize. This kind of fungus attack timber cells, causing them to break down and disintegrate.
Dry rot is typically more difficult to fix than wet rot due to the fact that it can get deeper into the material. It can be avoided, however, by finding and repairing the source of moisture, for instance a penetrating damp or leak. It is also crucial to regularly clean out your gutters to prevent the buildup of water that can cause leaks in your home or a basement that has been flooded.
The risk of rot can be minimized by keeping crawlspaces and basements dry and using dehumidifiers. To stop water from entering gaps, they should regularly clean the caulking and sealant around doors and windows. They should also replace any damaged or cracked timbers.