Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window isn't opening and closing smoothly it could be a sign of a leaky seal. Heat-induced expansions and contractions over time can damage seals between double panes allowing moisture, dirt and energy loss.
Wood rot is also common in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent option to save money on costly repairs.
Chips and cracks
A window that is cracked can be dangerous. It exposes the glass to more cracks and also moisture, which can lead to a mold problem. Fix any cracks and chips as soon you can to keep your windows in good shape and your family safe.
Pebbles, rock chips, and even Dolichovespula Maculata seeds can crack your windows. (No it's not a plant. It's actually an insect.) These cracks can be repaired.
This method is a good option to repair single-paned household glass, or even double-paned windows with cracks only on one side. This method will not work for windshields because they require a special tool that injects resin into the crack to create the vacuum.
Clean the area in which the crack will be repaired with glass cleaner. Then apply a pin or thumbtack to remove any glass fragments that are loose in the crack. You can also employ acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and make sure that the repair material adheres correctly.
Some methods claim that a fixed crack is virtually undetectable. While this is the case for certain kinds of repairs but it's not a feasible target for all, especially for small cracks in the glass. However, fixing these cracks will help prevent them from growing into larger issues and can prevent them from spreading further.
If you want to have cracks that are completely invisible, then you need to find a kit that uses super glue that is clear. This kind of glue doesn't expand when it dries and won't cause more damage to the crack. Be double glazed window repair to go through the directions for the product you are using before making an informed decision.
You can cover a crack using clear nail polish to offer a temporary solution. This can act as a sealer, and slow down the progress of the crack. However, it's essential to apply the polish a little bit outside the edges of the crack in order to avoid damaging the integrity of the windshield.
Sashes that won't move
Many older windows are difficult to open due to the wood's swelling or decay, or because the balance systems that allow them to move up and down can break. But often the problem is something simpler, like dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It may only need to be lubricated or cleaned.
The first step is to remove the frame of the sash. You can do this using a putty knife and a bit of patience. Score the paint between the jamb and sashstop first, then carefully pry the two pieces apart. Place the pieces aside so that they don't 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 accessible, you'll be able to lower the top sash all the up to the sill. The bottom sash is similar to being difficult to move as the top sash however, it's slightly more difficult. After you've lowered it completely you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock your balance shoe (the little box that sits on the bottom of the window) so it can support the weight of the sash.
If the sash isn't staying in place, you might need to replace the balance system or sash. It's generally simpler than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are readily available from several different suppliers and aren't expensive. After you have replaced the balance system or sash, you are able to examine the sash and determine if it is working properly.
Another issue that can make windows hard to open is the fact that the tilt pin for the sash is missing or falls out when cleaning. If you are adept, you can repair this yourself. However, you should only apply it to older windows which are safe to remove. If you're not an expert then you'll need to engage a professional with expertise in the window brand you have.
Caps for drip Caps
If you're experiencing water around your windows, it could be the moment to purchase new drip caps. This L-shaped piece of flashing is put over your window after it's installed but before siding is put up and helps direct water away from the frame. This quick project can help keep moisture from causing damage and help you save money on maintenance costs.
The addition of an end dam to the window cap flashing could also prevent water infiltration towards the ends of the trim. Simply use a pair of Tin snips to make an elongated "flap" on both sides of the trim. This will prevent rain from rolling down the ends of the flashing and into the wood framing.
MS Windows and Doors also provides drip caps that are pre-fabricated with an end dam. These preformed drip caps are available in many color variants and can be added to your order after you order your window.
Install the head flashing underneath the sheathing that is above the drip cap. This is the same kind of flashing that's used for the j channel on your trim for the exterior. It's best to seal only the corners of the head flashing, and not the entire length.
The head flashing is slit on each corner at a 45 degree angle to create an elongated flap. It's then folded back and taped again to the sheathing. This creates a small opening for water that may get through the WRB into the sheathing of the home above the window.
You can apply caulk to the top of your drip cap once you have secured it to the sheathing. This will stop the moisture from getting into the wood of your housewrap or window sill and housewrap, as well as the siding above the window. Be aware that moisture can cause structural issues and wood rot, so it is important to stop moisture from entering your home.
Sash Weights
Weights on a window (also called sashweights or sashlines) help to balance the sashes, preventing them from sliding when they are opened. Weights may need to either be replaced or removed if they are tangled. Counter balances might also need to be replaced.
The first thing Pam will do is inspect the exterior of the window to make sure there's not a lot of visible damage or rot that has to be addressed before she starts the work. If there are visible damages, she will have to do the necessary repairs prior to beginning the process of restoring the windows.
She begins by removing the sash stops on the interior and the parting stops on each side of the window. To accomplish this, you'll need to score the paint line with an utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stops and then pry it off using a wooden tool. Pam states that this step is important because using mallets to remove stops, they could break or split. She suggests using the smallest woodworking tool that has a small blade.
After the stops have been removed, she's able to remove the sashes. She takes off the bottom sash first, and then the top. Pam is able to lubricate the sash cords so that they can move easily. Once the sashes are free she can pull the sash cord out and find the metal hooks which attach to each sash weight. Most of the time, they're damaged and need to be replaced. She then pulls an old sashweight from its pocket, and screws in a brand new one.
She evaluates the weights by weighing the sash using an instrument to determine how much it weighs. She replaces the weight with one that's equivalent to the weight of the sash. Repeat the process for the second sash to ensure that it is balanced. When the sashes have been put back in place She uses a level to check that they're in the right place. She also lubricates the cords to make them slide more easily and tightens the counter-balance hooks.