Home Window Repair
A lawnmower's pebble or a large glass of wine set on a coffee table with a glass top or a broken window are just a few of the issues that can plague your windows at home.
These problems can be easily fixed by you without having to call a professional. These easy fixes won't be winning your home any beauty contests, but they'll keep your windows in tip-top form.
Broken Panes
A stray ball or strong wind can damage windows, leaving your home vulnerable to the elements. However, replacing a single window isn't as difficult as you think and is a less expensive option than purchasing an entirely new window or hiring an expert. With just a few tools and some careful attention to detail, you can replace the broken window pane quickly and efficiently.
Wear safety glasses prior to when you begin. Clean the area around the glass window of glass crystals or glass chards. Clean the frame and get rid of any varnish or paint from the wood. Remove the saddle bars from the metal sash. Then, using a utility blade and a hammer, carefully remove the trim from the window frames. Be careful not to cut the lead of the current pane, and don't attempt to break the glass too often.
If you're using a brand new pane, have it cut at an establishment that sells hardware to ensure it's 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.
upvc repairs are secured by glazing putty as well as small metal clips referred to as glazier's point. Apply a large amount of glaziers putty around the broken glass on the wood frame. Incorporate glazier's facets into the putty about every six inches. This will secure the window in position and allow you to reseal your frame later.
Linseed can be used to dampen your fingers and then run it over the wood surface prior to applying any putty. This will lubricate the putty and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is limited in its shelf life and can dry out in time, so you should add some drops of Linseed oil to the mix to extend its life. Once the putty is moist and you are ready to begin fixing your window.
Broken Seals
Rubber used to seal double paned windows can wear out over time. The window is then susceptible to moisture, which compromises its purpose and allowing it to let in cold air or warm humidity. The first indication that a seal has broken is condensation or fog that forms between the two panes. A significant temperature difference between your home and outside home is a different indication. A damaged seal could cause your windows to appear blurred or appear distorted as the sealed gas escapes.
Window replacement is the only way to restore your windows to their original state. Fortunately, most modern double-paned windows are covered by warranties and can be replaced at no extra cost to homeowners.
If your windows are under warranty, it is important to take advantage of this option immediately to save money on the cost of a full replacement. The warranty covers all work and materials required to repair or replace your windows.
Although you can replace windows yourself, the procedure is complex and requires specialized tools. Calling a professional installer is the best choice. They'll handle the cleaning, removal, and the reinstallation of your windows, all while ensuring that they are properly sealed and glazed to protect your home from the effects of moisture, cold air and hot sun.
A window replacement can help you save money on your energy costs. Replacement of older windows with modern double pane windows can significantly cut your heating and cooling costs. Plus, the insulation of newer windows is better and they provide a more comfortable environment in your home. The only drawback to a window replacement is the initial price, but this can be offset by the savings you will see on your electricity bills.
Sashes That Won't Open
A sash window that isn't able to open poses more than just an inconvenience, it can be a risk. The sash may fall down unexpectedly, damaging anything on the sill including pets and children. Single and double-hung window designs include balancing mechanisms that keep the sash out of the jambs. The issue could be that the sash hasn't been properly connected to these mechanisms, or it may require a reset or locked.
Start by testing if the window will move. If it doesn't move, try using an instrument that is placed on the rail where the lower and upper sashes meet to pull them apart. If the window does move, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to access the sides. If the spline of the sash appears to be loose in the smallest of places it is possible to use a utility knife to cut the spline at the corners. If the spline is broken or torn, you will need to replace it.
If the sash is stuck, you might need to take off the front stop trim piece. Hardware stores have tools to do this. A putty blade will also be useful. Utilizing your cutting tool cut the paint seal that encircles the sash channels. Remove any screws holding the stops in place. After this, you'll be able to lift the sash from the frame and move it to a new position.
If the sash is stuck, it's likely that the balance shoe has moved towards the bottom of the frame. It's simple to reset this: Mark the position of the hinge channel and unscrew. Fill the holes in the screws with epoxy or wood filler and then scrape them clean before reinstalling the channel. Relock the balance pin once the hinge channel is reinstated by moving it into the "U-position". Reposition the sash to ensure that it is aligned with balance, and then check the window.
Wood Rot
Wood rot isn't just a nuisance; it can also cause structural damage to property. It comes in a variety of forms that include dry and wet rot. In both instances, the damage is caused by a combination of moisture and fungus. Dry and wet rot can be repaired but it's best to stop it at the source. Property owners should look for signs of rot on areas that are at risk of becoming damp, such as windows outside as well as timber beams and basement subfloors. They should also inspect the for any gaps or cracks.
If a hole has been discovered the hole should be cleaned using a water-resistant wood filler and then filled. After the wood has dried, it can be stained to match the surrounding. If you are using stain for wood it is essential to test the product on a small patch of the filler prior to applying. This will ensure that the stain doesn't alter color, corrode or otherwise alter the finished look of your woodwork.
Wet decay is easy to identify and is often characterized by an unpleasant odor that is like soil that has been rotting. It's also less brittle than uninfected timber, making it easier to feel it with your fingers. Dry rot is harder to recognize. This kind of fungus attacks the cells within timber which causes them to break down and disintegrate.
Dry rot is typically more difficult to fix than wet rot because it can penetrate deeper into the material. It can be prevented however by finding and fixing the cause of moisture, like a penetrating damp or leak. It's also important to regularly clear gutters of blockages to prevent a accumulation of water that can cause leaks in the house or a basement that's flooded.
Homeowners can reduce the chance of decay by keeping windows open and utilizing a dehumidifier in crawl spaces and basements. They should also be sure to clean the caulking or sealant around doors and windows to prevent water from getting into gaps. Additionally, they should replace cracked or damaged timbers.