Home Window Repair
A pebble from the lawnmower, a heavy drink placed on the glass-topped coffee table or a broken window are just a few of the problems that could be affecting your home windows.
These issues can be fixed by you without the need to call a professional. These easy fixes won't be winning your home any beauty contests, but they can keep your windows in top shape.
Broken Panes
A baseball or a powerful wind can damage the window panes, making you exposed to the elements. But replacing a single pane isn't as difficult as you think and it's a cheaper option than buying a new window or hiring a professional. You can replace a broken pane of glass quickly and easily with a few simple tools.
Before you begin your work take off the safety glasses and clean the area around the window of glass splinters and glass chards. Clean the frame and get rid of any old paint or varnish from the wood. If you have a sash made of metal with saddle bars, remove them as well. Then with a utility knife to carefully cut away the trim from the window frames. Be sure not to pierce the lead of the current pane, and be careful not to crack the glass itself too often.
If you are using a brand new pane, it is best to have it cut in a hardware shop. This will ensure that the glass is the proper size. You should subtract 1/8 of an inch from the actual size of the opening in order to accommodate the glass. This is because wood expands and contracts.
The majority of single pane windows are secured by glazing putty as well as small metal clips referred to as glazier's point. Apply a generous amount of glaziers's putty to the broken glass on the frame of the wood. Press glazier's points into putty around every six inches. This will keep the window in position and allow you to reseal your frame later.
Linseed can be used to dampen your finger and then rub it across the wood surface before applying any putty. This will help lubricate the putty and make it easier to work with. Glazing putty is a limited product that will dry out over time. Add a few drops linseed to the mix to prolong its shelf life. Once upvc window repair near me has a good amount of moisture, you can begin repairing your window.
Broken Seals
As time passes, the rubber used to seal double-paned windows may break down. The window is then vulnerable to moisture, which can compromise its purpose and allowing in warm or cold humidity. The first indication that a seal has broken is condensation or fog between the two panes. A significant temperature difference between inside and outside your home is another sign. Finally, a damaged seal can cause your windows to appear hazy or discolored as the vacuum-sealed argon gas escapes.
A window replacement is the only way to get your windows back to their original condition. Many double-paned modern windows are covered by warranties and are easily replaced by the homeowner at no extra cost.
If your windows are covered by warranty, you'll want to avail this opportunity immediately to avoid the expense of a complete replacement. The warranty covers the labor and materials required to repair or replace windows.
While windows can be replaced at home, the process is complicated and requires special tools. Calling a professional installer is the best option. They'll handle the removal, cleaning and the reinstallation of your windows, all while ensuring that they are properly sealed and glazed to protect your home from moisture, hot sun and cold air.
A window replacement could also help you 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 superior and they provide an enviable environment for your home. The only downside of replacing windows is the initial cost. However, this cost can be offset with the savings you will be able to see on your electric bill in the future.
Sashes that won't let you open
A sash window that doesn't open poses more than just an inconvenience - it could be a risk. The sash could close suddenly and cause damage to anything on the sill, including pets and children. Fortunately, single and double-hung windows are constructed with balance mechanisms which keep the sash in place and out of the way of the jambs. The issue could be that the sash isn't properly connected to these mechanisms, or it might just need to be reset or locked.
To fix this, begin by examining the window to check if it moves. If it won't, use a tool on the joint rail (where the upper and lower sashes come together) to try to break the two sashes away. If the window does move, take off the sash and set it on a surface to access the sides. If the spline on the sash is loose in the smallest of places it is possible to use a utility knife to cut the spline apart at the corners. If the spline has been torn or broken off entirely, you'll need to replace it.
If the sash is still stuck, it may be necessary to remove the front trim piece. Hardware stores carry tools for this. A putty blade will also be a good option. Utilizing your cutting tool cut the paint seal that surrounds the sash channels. Remove any screws holding the stops in the frame. After this is done you'll be able remove the sash from the frame and then reposition it properly.
If the sash remains stuck in the frame, the balance shoe could have fallen to the bottom of frame. It's easy to reset this by marking the location of the hinge channel, then unscrew. Fill the screw holes with wood filler or epoxy and then scrape them clean before reinstalling the channel. Lock the balance pin after the hinge channel is reinstalled by putting it into the "U-position". Reposition the sash so that it is aligned with the balance and test it again.
Wood Rot
Wood rot isn't just a nuisance but it can also cause serious structural damage to property. Wet and dry rot are two of the numerous types. In both instances the damage is caused by a combination of moisture and fungus. Dry and wet rot can be repaired however, it is best to stop them at the source. Property owners can look for the presence of rot in areas likely to be damp, like outside window frames, timber joists and basement subfloors. They should also inspect the wood in any gaps or cracks.
If a hole is discovered the area must be cleaned and filled with a water-resistant timber filler. After the wood has dried, it should be stained to match the surrounding material. It is crucial to test a stain on wood on a small portion of the filler material prior applying it. This will ensure that the stain will not alter color, corrode, or otherwise alter the look of your woodwork.
Wet rot can be easily recognized by its musty odor that's like that of soil that has rotten. It's also more supple than timber that isn't affected which makes it easier to feel it with your hands. Dry rot however, can be more difficult to identify. This type of fungus attacks timber cells, causing them to break down and disintegrate.
Dry rot is more difficult to repair because it can penetrate deeper. However, it is still able to be prevented by identifying the source of the moisture and repairing it, such as leaks or getting into damp. It is also crucial to regularly clean out your gutters to prevent accumulation of water that could lead to leaks in your home or a basement that has been flooded.
Homeowners can reduce the risk of rot by keeping windows closed and using a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces. They should also ensure to clean the caulking or sealant around windows and doors to stop water from entering gaps. Additionally they should replace damaged or damaged timbers.