Notes

20 Reasons Why Window Repairs Will Not Be Forgotten
Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore

If your window isn't closing and opening smoothly, this could be a sign of a failing seal. Heat-induced expansions or contractions can damage seals on double pane windows over time which allows dirt and moisture to get into.

Wood rot is also a problem in window frames and sills. Repairing the wood early with epoxy filler can prevent costly repairs later on.

Cracks and chips

A window that is cracked can be risky. It exposes the glass to cracks and also moisture, which can lead to a mold problem. Fix any cracks and chips as soon you can to keep your windows intact and your family secure.

The most frequent items that could crack your window are rocks or pebbles dropped by the car in front of you, and even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no this isn't an actual plant, it's bug). But don't fret as these cracks can be fixed.

This repair method is suitable for single-pane household glass and even double-pane windows that have cracks in just one pane of glass. It isn't suitable for windshields that require a special tool to inject resin into the crack and create an air gap between the glass layers.

Clean the area in which the crack is to be repaired using glass cleaner. Then apply a thumbtack or pin to remove any loose shards of glass in the crack. You can also employ acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean the surface and make sure that the repair material is adhered correctly.

Some methods suggest that a repair will be nearly invisible. This is true for certain types of repairs but not for all, especially small cracks. Repairing these cracks will help stop them from becoming bigger problems, and they may even stop them from spreading.

If you'd like to create cracks that are completely invisible, you should look for a kit that uses clear super glue. This kind of super glue will not expand when it dries and will not increase the severity of the crack. Be sure to review the directions for your product before making a decision.

If you want to try a temporary solution you can cover a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This will serve as an adhesive and slow the progression of the chip or crack. It's crucial to apply the polish slightly outside the edges of the crack to avoid damaging the integrity of the windshield.

Sashes that aren't moving

Certain windows from the past are difficult to open due to swollen wood or rotten wood, or because the cords or balance systems that move up and down can be damaged. The problem may be something simpler, like dirt or other debris that has gummed up the mechanisms. It may only need to be lubricated or cleaned.

The first step is to remove the sash from its frame. This can be done using an putty knife and a bit of patience. Score the paint between the sashstop and jamb first, and then carefully pull the two pieces apart. Set the pieces aside so that they don't get damaged.

After removing the sash, you will be able to gain access to the pocket piece and the front window stops. They can be removed using a utility blade and then lower the top sash until it is at the sill. The bottom sash isn't as challenging to move as the top, but getting it all the way down may be a challenge as well. After you've lowered the sash down to the lowest point you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and relock the balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of your window) so that it can be able to support the weight of the sash.

If your sash still doesn't stay up, you may require replacing the balance system or sash. It's usually easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are readily available from several different vendors and are inexpensive. Once you've replaced the balance system or sash you can move the sash and test it to see whether it functions correctly.


Another issue that could cause windows to be difficult to open is the fact that the sash tilt pin is missing or falls out when cleaning. This is easy to repair if you're handy however, you should only attempt this on older windows that are safe to dismantle. If you're not sure, you should seek out a professional who is experienced with the particular type of window you have.

Caps for drip Caps

If you're experiencing water infiltration around your window, it might be time to purchase an additional drip cap. The L-shaped flashing is positioned on top of the window after installation but before siding. It helps to direct water away from the frame. This easy project can prevent moisture damage and save you money on maintenance costs.

Adding an end dam to the window cap flashing could also help prevent water infiltration at the ends of the trim. Simply use a pair tin snips to create an elongated "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold will prevent rain from rolling off the ends of the flashing, and then down into the wood framing.

MS Windows and Doors also provides drip caps that have been made with an end dam. These drip caps are available in many colors and can be added to your order after you make your window purchase.

While you're installing your new drip cap, be sure that you also put the head flashing under the sheathing above it. This is the same kind of flashing that's used to create 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 cut on each corner at a 45-degree angle to create a small flap. The flap is then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This opens up a small space for water to pass through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.

Once you've secured the drip cap to the sheathing you can apply caulk along the top edge of the cap. This will prevent the moisture from soaking into the wood of your window sill and housewrap, as well as into the siding above the window. It's important to remember that moisture can cause wood rot as well as other serious structural problems, so it's always best to prevent moisture infiltration from the beginning.

Sash Weights

The window's weights (also known as sash weights or sash lines) are used to balance the sashes and prevent them from moving too much when you open them. The weights may need to be replaced or removed if they are tied. It's also possible that counter balances have to be replaced.

Pam looks at the outside of the window first to ensure there aren't any visible damage or rots that need to be addressed before beginning the work. If there is, she'll need to do the repairs before trying to repair the windows.

She begins by removing the parting stops and interior sash stop on both sides of the window. This requires cutting the paint line on both sides of the interior sash stop using a utility knife, and taking it off using a woodworking tool. Pam states that this step is important because using mallets to remove the stops, they can crack or split. She suggests a small handheld woodworking tool with an angled blade.

After removing the stops, she can take off the sashes. She takes the sash from the bottom, then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords prior to pulling them out, so that they can move with ease. Once double glazing window repairs are free she can pull the sash cord out and locate the metal hooks that connect to each sash weight. They are typically damaged and require to be replaced. Then, she pulls one of the old sash weights from its pocket and inserts the new one.

She weighs the sash on an instrument and then check the weights. Then, she replaces the weight with a new one that matches the weight of the sash. She repeats the process for the second sash, to make sure it's balanced. She uses a level after the sashes have been put back in place to ensure they're level. She also lubricates the cords in order to allow them to slide more easily and tightens the counter-balance hooks.

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