Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore
If your window doesn't open and close smoothly, it could be a sign of a leaky seal. Heat-induced expansions or contractions can cause damage to seals in double pane windows over time, allowing moisture and dirt to get into.
Wood rot is also a problem in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent way to save money on costly repairs.
Chips and cracks
A damaged window isn't just ugly; it could be a risk. It exposes the glass to more breakage as well as humidity, which can lead to a mold problem. Repair any chips and cracks promptly to keep your windows in good shape and your family secure.
The most common items that could crack your window are rock chips and pebbles that are thrown by the car in front of you, or even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no, that's not an actual plant, it's an insect). Cracks in windows can be repaired.
This method can be used to repair single-paned glass in homes or even double-paned windows with cracks on only one side. It isn't suitable for windshields that require a specific tool to inject resin into the crack and create a vacuum between the glass layers.
First clean the area you're planning to repair the crack using glass cleaner. Then apply a pin or thumbtack to remove any glass fragments that are loose in the crack. Also, you should clean the surface with rubbing alcohol or acetone to ensure proper adhesion of the repair material.
Some methods claim a repaired crack is nearly invisible. While this is true for some kinds of repairs but it's not a feasible target for all, especially for small cracks in the glass. However, fixing cracks can help stop them from causing larger problems and could stop them from spreading further.
If you'd like to create cracks that are invisible, then look for a kit that uses transparent super glue. This type of super glue does not expand as it dries and will not increase the severity of the crack. Be sure to review the directions for the product you are using before making a decision.
You can cover a crack with clear nail polish for an interim solution. This can act as a sealer and slow down the progress of the crack. However, it's important to apply the polish a little bit outside the edges of the crack to prevent damaging the integrity of the windshield.
Sashes that don't move
Many older windows are difficult to open because of damaged or swollen wood or because the balance mechanisms that move them up and down can break. The problem may be something simpler, like 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 accomplished with a putty blade and a bit of grit. First score the paint between the jamb and sash stop and then carefully pull them apart. Place the pieces aside so that they are not damaged.
After removing the sash, you'll be able gain access to the pocket piece and the front window stops. You can remove them with an utility blade, and then lower the top sash to the sill. The bottom sash isn't as difficult to move as the top, but getting it all the way down can be a challenge as well. Once you've lowered the sash completely you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock your balance shoe (the tiny box that's at the bottom of the window) so it can support the weight of the sash.
If the sash doesn't stay in place, you may need to replace the balance system or sash. This is generally simpler than you might think, since replacement parts are quite inexpensive and available from a variety of vendors. After you have replaced the balance system, or sash you can check the sash to determine whether it's functioning properly.
Another issue that could cause windows to be difficult to open is that the tilt pin for the sash is missing or falls out when cleaning. If you are skilled, you can fix this yourself. But it is recommended to only do it on older windows that are safe to disassemble. If you're not handy, it's best to employ a professional who has experience with the type of window you have.
Drip Caps
If you are experiencing moisture around your windows, it could be the right time to invest in new drip caps. This L-shaped piece of flashing is put on top of the window after it's been installed but before siding is put in and helps direct water away from the frame. It's an easy project that can help prevent the damage caused by moisture, and also will save you maintenance costs down the road.
A dam at the end of the window cap flashing could also help prevent water infiltration at the ends of the trim. Make use of a pair of tin snips to create the small "flap". repairing double glazed windows will stop rain from falling down the sides of the flashing and into the wood framing.
MS Windows and Doors also provides drip caps that have been pre-fabricated with an end dam. These preformed drip caps are available in various colors and can be added to your order when you place your window.
While you're installing the new drip cap, be sure to also install the head flashing beneath the sheathing that is above it. This is the same flashing you'll find under the J channel on the outside trim. It is a good idea to not tape the entire length of the head flashing, and to only cover the corners.
The head flashing is cut at a 45-degree angle on each corner to create a small flap, and then it's folded back and then taped with a skip to the sheathing. This creates a small opening for water to flow through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.
You can seal the top edge of your drip cap once you have attached it to the sheathing. 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 as well as other serious structural issues and it's always best to keep moisture out from the beginning.
Sash Weights
The window's weights (also called sash weights, or sash lines) are used to balance the sashes and keep them from swaying excessively when you open them. The weights themselves might require replacement, or they may be tangled and require to be loosened. Counter balances might also need to be replaced.
The first thing Pam does is examine the exterior of the window to make sure there isn't a lot of visible damage or rot that has to be dealt with before she begins the work. If there is, she'll need to do the repairs before attempting to restore the windows.
She begins by removing the parting stops and the interior sash stop on both sides of the window. To do this, you'll be required to mark the paint line using a utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stops and then pull it away using an instrument made of wood. Pam says this is important because if you try to pound the stops away with a mallet, it could cause cracks or even splits. She suggests a hand-held woodworking tool with the narrow blade.
Once the stops have been removed, she's ready to remove the sashes themselves. She pulls the bottom sash out and then the top. Pam lubricates sash cords to allow them to move smoothly. Once the sashes are free, she can take the sash cord off and locate the hooks made of metal which attach to each sash weight. They are usually damaged and need to be replaced. She then takes an old sashweight from its pocket, and screws in a brand new one.
She weighs the sash on a scale and examines the weights. Then she replaces the weight with one that is in line with the weight of the sash. She repeats the process for the second sash, to ensure that it is balanced. She applies a level after the sashes have been put back in place to ensure they're level. She also makes sure that the cords are lubricated to let them move easily, and re-tightens the counter balance hooks.