Notes

11 "Faux Pas" Which Are Actually Okay To Make With Your Window Repairs
Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save time and money for homeowners. However, there are instances when replacing old windows are more economical.

Stray baseballs and projectiles frequently cause holes or cracks in window glass. These are usually easy fixes with the right tools.

If the frame of the unit is decayed it is better to replace the entire unit.

Broken or cracked glass

A bad storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase pushed down too hard could crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately just a little time and effort can prevent these cracks from becoming worse and help you avoid the expense of replacing glass.

First, take out the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any trim, molding or glazing putty that keeps the glass in place. You may also need to employ a utility knife to remove any glass shards that are stuck in the frame or old glazing.

After removing the window, clean the area around it and the surface thoroughly. This will stop the glue that is used to glue the new glass in place from leaking out and causing more damage. It is also important to ensure that the new glass is a good fit. If the new piece is bigger than the previous one, you'll have to reduce it using circular saws or a miter saw.

Once your surface has been cleaned and dried, you can apply a glass glue designed specifically for windows. Then, you can reinstall the glass into your window sash. Be careful not to bend or move the glass during this process because it could cause the crack to get deeper.

You can also make use of products like Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all types of glass, including tinted ones. Be aware that this type of fix won't completely cover the crack, therefore it's not a suitable solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Another option is epoxy, which is a little more laborious to apply, but will provide the strongest seal and will likely make your window glass that has been damaged nearly invisible. Before applying epoxy, however you'll need to scrub your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. Also, you'll need be prepared for any abrupt weather changes that could cause the crack to widen again. If you're not confident with these DIY repair methods or if the glass you have cracked is particularly large or has double-paned It's recommended to call in the professionals to have a professional repair.

Sashes that won't open

A window that won't stay up is more than just a nuisance. It could also be dangerous. Single-hung and double-hung windows are equipped with balancing mechanisms that keep the sash from sliding. However, one or more mechanisms could be damaged or broken. Examine the balance and pivot bar shoe to determine if either or both have been dislodged. You'll need to replace the bar pivot and balance shoe if they have become dislodged.

Moisture in the windows sash can trigger cycles of contraction or expansion. This could cause the frame joints to become looser as time passes and become stuck. You might be able to fix this without removing the window by putting a knife around the joints of the frame and prying them open. If the wood appears to be swollen, this is often caused by missing flashing on your house's exterior which lets water soak into the frame.

Another reason that is commonly cited for a window that won't open is a sash cord that has snapped. You can try to reattach the cord using pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord has snapped completely, you will need to replace it.

Paint can also make windows difficult to move. If the sash channel on a double-hung windows is painted shut, you may be capable of breaking the bond by using a utility blade and sliding it. If this does not work then you'll have to take off the window sash and then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop or parting strip or jamb (Photo 1).

Sash shoes for single-hung windows may be made of plastic or metal. They feature an U shape slot that locks when the shoe is in the normal position inside the sash. To unlock the shoe, using a screwdriver, turn the slot sideways by following the image 2. Then, you can move the sash up and down, and then check if the window works normally.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't just unsightly; it can also pose a serious threat to the structural integrity in the area it has infested. The fungus responsible feeds on moisture and turns wooden beams, walls, and joists into a soggy mush. To avoid rot you must ensure that your home is well maintained and that areas that are exposed to the elements are well protected. Even if you're diligent the slightest lapse in painting or clogged rain gutter or a minor roof leak could expose windows, porch columns, and other parts of the home to decay organisms.

The majority of wood decays are caused by excessive moisture, which is often caused by condensation or seepage from rainwater. The latter can occur when damp-proofing courses are not installed or damaged or when internal materials like plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.

The first step to repairing rot is removing the old material. This is generally easy enough using a pry bar but using a combination of hammer as well as chisel might be needed for the most difficult spots. After the decayed wood has been removed, the gap has to be caulked and filled. There are a variety of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on the amount of work you're willing to put into it and how deep the hole.

If the rot is just too deep for a filler that is simple, then you'll have to replace the damaged area. This can be done by hiring a professional or by doing it yourself. This is a more complicated task that requires the expertise of a carpenter to complete. If you are unsure about your DIY skills, it is best to call an expert.

While repairing upvc repair that is rotting is always a possibility, it's far easier (and cheaper) to stop it from happening in the beginning. Preventative measures can include sealing cracks around the windows, scraping caulk off and repainting it, as well as installing drip edges on the roof. You should also look for signs of excessive humidity around your windows and think about a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels under control.

Dirty Seals

Water dripping around or under a window is likely to be the most obvious sign that window seals are shrinking. Sometimes this is easy to detect, but often it is hidden behind a wall, and harder to find. This can lead to soft wood, mold, and even structural damage in your RV. Regular inspections and cleaning are the best way to guard windows. By gently pressing against the trim of the seal and visual inspection can help you find soft spots before they cause water damage.

Windows that have a haze of fog are an indication of a weak seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from the aesthetics of your RV.

The weather plays a significant role in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand, whereas in colder temperatures, they shrink. You can minimize this effect by keeping your camper out of direct sunlight and keeping it under cover when possible. Also, a simple car wash can to keep the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows.

Another cause that can lead to seal failure is rubbing seals with brushes or washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that will cause the rubber to break down. This can cause the seals to become brittle and prone to cracking. The best way to prevent this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows, and to keep the sash tracks and window seals clean with a dry brush.

Performing these routine maintenance tasks is the least expensive and most efficient method of protecting the windows of your RV. It also gives you the chance to examine the condition of the window seals and make repairs that can save you from costly future issues.


Lubricating your window seals with 303 Protectant Spray or replaced is a more costly fix than simply resealing your sash, but it is still significantly cheaper than repairing the water damage caused by faulty seals. This is a simple DIY project that can extend the life of your RV windows and help you save money.

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