Home Window Repair
A stray pebble from the lawnmower or a large glass of wine set on the coffee table with a glass top or a broken window are just a few problems that could be affecting your home windows.
These problems can be easily repaired by you without calling a professional. These quick fixes won't be winning your home any beauty contests, but they'll keep your windows in top shape.
Broken Panes
A stray baseball or a strong wind can break a window pane, leaving your home vulnerable to the elements. But replacing a single pane isn't as difficult as you think and it's a cheaper option than buying windows or hiring a professional. With a few tools and a keen care it is possible to replace the broken window pane in a short time and with efficiency.
Wear safety glasses prior to when you begin. Clean the area around the glass window of any glass crystals or glass chards. Clean the frame and get rid of any varnish or paint from the wood. If you have a sash made from metal with saddle bars, take them off. them as well. Then, take 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 try to crack the glass itself too excessively.
If you are using a brand new pane, it is best to cut it in a hardware shop. This will ensure that the glass is of the correct size. You must subtract 1/8 of an inch from the actual size of the opening to accommodate the glass. This is because wood expands and contracts.
Glazier's points and glazing putty are used to hold the majority of single pane windows in place. Apply a generous amount of glaziers putty around the broken glass on the frame of the wood. Press glazier's points into putty approximately every six inches. This will secure the window in position and allow you to seal your frame later.
Before applying any putty, dampen your fingers with linseed oil and rub it across the surface of the wood. upvc window repairs 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 be sure to add some drops of linseed oil to the mix to prolong its life. When the putty is dry it is time to begin repairing your window.
Broken Seals
Over time, the rubber used to seal double-paned windows will disintegrate. This could leave the windows open to moisture, which compromises its function and allows in cold or warm humidity. The first sign of a broken seal is condensation or fog between the two panes of glass. A noticeable difference in temperature between inside and outside your home is a further indication. A broken seal can cause your windows to appear cloudy or distorted as the vacuum-sealed gas escapes.
Window replacement is the only way to restore your windows to their original condition. Many modern double-paned windows are covered by warranties and can be replaced by the homeowner at no additional cost.
When your windows are under warranty, it is important to avail this benefit as soon as you can to avoid the expense of a complete replacement. The warranty covers all work and materials required to repair or replace your windows.
While you can install windows yourself, the process is complex and requires specialized tools. The best choice is to call an expert window installer. They will take out, clean and reinstall your windows, while ensuring that they are properly glazed, insulated and protect your home against the elements of cold air, moisture and hot sun.
Window replacement could also save money on your energy bills. Replacement of older windows with modern double pane windows can dramatically reduce your cooling and heating costs. Additionally, the newer windows feature superior insulation and provide the most comfortable living space. The only drawback to a window replacement project is the initial cost. However, this cost can be offset by the savings you will be able to see on your electric bill in the future.
Sashes that won't let you open
A sash that isn't opening is more than just a nuisance. It can also be a risk. The sash may fall down in a sudden manner, causing damage to any item on the sill, including children and pets. Fortunately, single and double-hung windows have balance mechanisms that keep the sash upright and out of the way of the jambs. It could be that the sash hasn't been properly connected to the mechanisms or it requires to be reset or locked.
To fix this issue, begin by examining the window and see if it will move. If it doesn't, employ a tool on the joint rail (where the upper and lower sashes meet together) to try to pry the two sashes away. If the window does move, take off the sash from the frame and set it on a work surface to get access to the sides. If the spline of the sash is loose in a few spots You can use a utility knife to cut the spline apart at the corners. If the spline has been torn or broken off entirely and you need to replace it.
If the sash is stuck, you may need to take off the front stop trim piece. Hardware stores carry tools to do this. A putty knife will also work. Utilizing your cutting tool cut the paint seal that encircles the sash channels and remove any screws that are holding the stops in place. After this, you can remove the sash from the frame and reposition the sash.
If the sash is stuck, it's likely that the balance shoe has moved towards the bottom of the frame. It's easy to reset it to mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame and unscrew it. Fill the screwholes with woodfiller or epoxy and smooth them out prior to reinstalling channel. Once the hinge channel is back in place, just relock the balance pin by moving it up into the "U" position. Reposition the sash until it is aligned with balance, and then verify the window.
Wood Rot
Wood rot can cause structural damage to the structure of a house. Wet and dry rot are just two of the various types. In both instances, the damage is caused by a combination of moisture as well as fungus. Dry and wet decay can be treated however, it is best to stop them at the source. Property owners should look for decay in areas that are likely to become damp, like outside window frames, timber joists, and basement subfloors. They should also inspect the for gaps or cracks.
If there is a hole the hole should be cleaned with an water-resistant wood filler then filled. Once the wood is dry it can be stained to match the surroundings. If you use stain for wood it is important to test the product on a small portion of the filler before applying. This will ensure the stain does not change color, corrode, or otherwise alter the look of your woodwork.
Wet rot can be recognized by its musty odor, which is similar to the smell of rotting soil. It's also more supple than wood that isn't infected, making it easier to feel with your hands. Dry rot, on the other hand, can be more difficult to recognize. This kind of fungus attack wood cells, making them disintegrate and break down.
Dry rot is typically more difficult to repair than wet rot due to the fact that it can penetrate deeper into the material. It can be prevented however, by finding and repairing the source of moisture, like a leak or damp that is penetrating. It is also important to clean regularly your gutters to prevent accumulation of water that could lead to leaks in your home or a flooded cellar.
Homeowners can also reduce the risk of decay by keeping windows open and using a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces. To stop water from entering gaps, they should periodically clean the caulking and sealant around windows and doors. They must also replace any cracked or damaged timbers.