The Window Repairs Awards: The Top, Worst, Or Strangest Things We've Ever Seen

Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing windows can be more cost-effective. Cracks or holes in the windows' glass are often caused by stray balls and projectiles. With the appropriate tools, these are easy solutions. However, if the window's frame is beginning to decay it is recommended to replace the entire window. Broken or cracked glass A severe storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase set down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. You can stop cracks from getting more severe by putting in a little more time and effort. This will save you money on replacement glass. First, take out the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any trim, molding or glazing putty that holds the glass in the frame. You may also have to use a utility knife to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or old glazing. After removing the glass clean the surface and the surrounding areas thoroughly. This will stop the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking and causing further damage. It is also important to ensure that the glass you've purchased is a perfect fit. If the new glass is larger than the previous one, you'll have to cut it down using circular saws or a miter saw. After your surface is clean, search for an adhesive for glass that is specifically designed for glass windows and follow the instructions on how to apply it. Install the glass back into the window sash. Avoid bending or moving the glass during this step because it could cause the crack to get deeper. You can also apply products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted versions. This type of fix won't completely hide the crack. It is not suitable for windows that are visible from the outside. Epoxy is a different alternative. It is more time-consuming, however it offers the highest seal and makes your glass break virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy you'll need to wash your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. It is also important to be prepared for any sudden weather conditions that can cause cracks to grow. If you're not comfortable with these DIY repair techniques, or your cracked glass is especially large or a double-paned glass It's recommended to call in the professionals to have a professional repair. Sashes That Won't Open A window that isn't able to remain up is more than just a nuisance; it could be a danger. Double- and single-hung windows have balancing mechanisms to prevent the sash from sliding up and down within the jambs. However there are times when one or more of these mechanisms could become disconnected or damaged. Examine the pivot bar and balance shoes to see whether one or both have dislodged. You'll need to replace the pivot bar and balance shoe if they have become dislodged. Moisture can cause cycles of expansion and contraction within the frames of sash windows that are made of timber. Over time, this can cause joints to become loose in the frame and cause them to become stuck. It is possible to repair this issue without removing the window if you use a utility knife to break the joints of the frame apart. If your wood appears swollen it is usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your home which allows water to enter the frame. Another reason that is commonly cited for windows that aren't opening is a snapped sash cord. You can try to reattach the cord using pliers and by slipping the sash back into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you'll require replacement. Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If the sash channel of double-hung windows is sealed with paint, you might be capable of breaking the bond with an utility knife and then slide it. If this does not work then you'll need to take out the window sash, and then cut the seam on both sides of the sash, stop or parting strip or jamb (Photo 1). www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk for single-hung windows can be made of metal or plastic. These shoes feature a U-shaped slot inside them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe using a screwdriver and turn the slot to the side using the photo 2. Then, you can slide the sash up and down and check if the window works normally. Rotting Wood Wood rot isn't only unsightly, it poses a real danger to the structural integrity of the portion of the house it's infiltrating. The fungus responsible for it to thrive on moisture, turning wood beams, joists, and walls into soggy and mush. To avoid rot you must ensure that your home is maintained and areas exposed to the elements are well protected. However, even if you're vigilant, it only takes one mishap with the painting process, clogged gutter or a minor leak in the roof to expose windows and porch columns as well as other parts of your house to a myriad of decaying organisms that can quickly eat away at the structure and compromise its structural integrity. The majority of wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is often caused by condensation or seepage from rainwater. The latter can occur if damp-proofing courses are not installed or damaged or when internal materials like drywall and plaster are affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures. The first step to repair rot involves removing the old material. It is usually easy to do with a pry-bar, but the combination of hammer and chisel could be needed for the stubbornest spots. After the decayed wood has been removed, the hole needs to be filled and sealed. There are a variety of wood fillers. The most suitable one will depend on the amount of work you want to do and the depth of the hole. If the rot is too deep for a simple filler, then you'll have to replace the damaged area. This can be done by hiring a professional or doing it yourself. This is a more complicated project, however, and requires expert carpentry skills to finish the job properly. If you are unsure about your DIY skills It is recommended to call an expert. While repairing rotting wood is a possibility however, it's much more effective (and cheaper) to stop it from happening in the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing any cracks that are around windows, scraping caulk off and repainting it, and installing drip edges on the roof. You should also check for signs of excessive humidity around your windows and consider a dehumidifier in order to keep moisture levels in check. Dirty Seals Water dripping from or around windows is the most obvious indicator that seals on windows are shrinking. It's easy to spot, however it's often hidden behind the wall. This can lead to soft wood, mould, and even structural damages in your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best method to safeguard windows. Gently pressing against the seal trim and visual inspection can help you find soft spots before they cause water damage. Fogged windows are another common sign of a failing seal. They may not be structurally damaging or making your electricity bill rise, but they detract from the aesthetics of your RV. The failure of window seals is largely caused by weather damage, with seals expanding in hot temperatures, and shrinking in colder temperatures. You can minimize this effect by keeping your camper out of direct sunlight and storing it in a cover whenever possible. A simple car wash can to keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals that are on your windows. Another reason that can cause sealing failure is rubbing seals with brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. Seals may become brittle and more prone to cracking. Avoid using harsh cleaners and keep your window seals and sash tracks in good condition with a dry toothbrush. This is the simplest and least expensive method of protecting the windows of your RV. This also gives you the opportunity to examine the seals on your windows and make any needed repairs. Having your window seals lubricated with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a far more expensive repair than simply resealing your sash, but it is nevertheless much cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by faulty seals. If you're willing to put in some time it is a DIY project that will prolong the lifespan of your RV's windows and save you money in the end.