Notes

Ten Window Repair That Will Actually Make Your Life Better
Home Window Repair

A stray pebble from the lawnmower or a large glass of wine set on a coffee table with a glass top or a broken window are only a few issues that can plague windows in your home.

These issues can be solved by you, without having to call a professional. These quick fixes won't win you any beauty contests, but they will keep your windows in good form.

Broken Panes

A stray baseball or a strong wind can break the window's pane, making your home vulnerable to elements. But replacing a single pane isn't as difficult as you think and it's a cheaper fix than purchasing an entirely new window or hiring a professional. With a few tools and a keen attention to detail it is possible to replace a broken window pane quickly and effectively.

Before you begin your work, put on safety goggles and clear the area around the window of glass splinters and glass chards. Remove any old paint or varnish from the wood frame. If you have a sash made from metal with saddle bars, remove the saddle bars as well. Then, take a knife and slowly pry the trim away from the window frames. Be careful not to cut any lead on the existing glass and don't try to break it too much.

If you're using a fresh pane, cut it 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 allow for the glass. This is because wood expands and contract.

Most single pane windows are secured by glazing putty as well as small metal clips called glazier's points. Apply a substantial amount of glaziers putty around the broken glass on the wood frame. Press glazier's points into putty approximately every six inches. This will hold the window in position and allow you to reseal the frame later.

Before applying any type of putty, wet your finger with linseed oils and rub it across the surface of the wood. This will help to lubricate the glue and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is limited in its shelf life and can dry out over time, so add the Linseed oil to prolong its life. When the putty is dry and you are ready to begin fixing your window.

Broken Seals

The rubber used to seal double pane windows can wear out over time. This can open the window open to moisture, which compromises its function and allows in warm or cold humidity. The first sign of a faulty seal is fog or condensation between the two panes of glass. Another sign is a noticeable difference in temperature of your home and outside. A damaged seal could cause windows to appear cloudy or blurred as the vacuum-sealed gas escapes.

Window replacement is the only option to restore your windows to their original condition. Thankfully, many modern double-paned windows come backed by warranties and can be replaced at no additional cost to homeowners.

If your windows are covered under warranty, avail the warranty whenever you can. This will save you money on a full replacement. The warranty covers the costs of labor and materials needed to repair or replace windows.

While you can replace your windows by yourself, the process is complicated and requires special tools. Calling upvc repairs is the best option. They will remove, clean and reinstall your windows, while ensuring that they are properly glazed, insulated and protect your home from moisture, cold air, and hot sun.

Window replacement could also save money on your energy costs. By replacing old windows with double paned windows, you can reduce your cooling and heating bills. Plus, the insulation of newer windows is better and they create an enviable environment for your home. The only downside to replacing windows is the initial cost. However, this could be offset by the savings you will notice on your electricity bill in the future.

Sashes that won't slide open

A sash window that won't open poses more than just a nuisance - it can be a risk. The sash may fall down at any time, causing harm to any item on the sill, including pets and children. Double-hung and single-hung window designs come with balancing mechanisms to keep the sash out of the jambs. It could be that the sash hasn't been properly connected to the mechanism or it is in need of be reset or locked.


To fix this, start by testing the window to determine if it is moving. If it won't, use an instrument at the junction rail (where the upper and lower sashes come together) to try to pry the two sashes away. If the window does move, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to access the sides. If the sash's spline is loose in only some places you can use a utility knife to cut it apart at the corners. If the spline is damaged or broken completely, you'll need to replace it.

If the sash remains stuck, you might need to remove the front stop trim piece. There are specific tools available at hardware stores to assist you do this, however an ordinary putty knife could work. With the help of your cutting tool, score the seal of paint that covers the sash channels. Remove the screws that hold the stops in the frame. After this, you'll be able to lift the sash from the frame and move it to a new position.

If the sash stays stuck and the balance shoe is not moving, it could have fallen down to the bottom of frame. It's simple to fix this way: mark the location of the hinge channel, then unscrew. Fill the screw holes with epoxy or wood filler and scrape them smooth before reinstalling the channel. Lock the balance pin when the hinge channel has been reinstated by moving it into the "U-position". Reposition the sash to ensure that it is aligned with balance, and then test the window.

Wood Rot

Wood rot isn't just an eyesore; it can also cause structural damage to property. Dry and wet rot are two of the various types. Both cases are caused by a combination moisture and fungus. Both dry and wet rots can be fixed. However, it's best to stop them at the source. Property owners can look for rot in areas that are likely to become damp, such as outside window frames, timber joists, and basement subfloors. It is also recommended to inspect wood anywhere there are gaps and cracks.

If there is a hole, the area should be cleaned and filled with a water-resistant timber filler. When the wood is dry 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 won't change color, corrode or alter the final appearance of your woodwork.

Wet decay is easy to identify, as it often has a musty smell similar to soil that is rotting. It's also softer than timber that isn't affected which makes it easier to feel with your hands. Dry rot however, can be more difficult to detect. This type of fungus eats the cells within timber, causing them to break down and then disintegrate.

Dry rot is typically more difficult to fix than wet rot because it can penetrate deeper into the materials. However, it can still be prevented by identifying the source of moisture and repairing it, for instance, the presence of a leak or penetrating damp. It's also helpful to regularly clean gutters of blockages to prevent a buildup of water that could cause leaks around the home or a flooded basement.

Homeowners can reduce the risk of rot by keeping windows open and installing a dehumidifier into basements and crawl spaces. To prevent water from getting into gaps, they must regularly clean the caulking and sealant around windows and doors. They must also replace any damaged or cracked timbers.

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