Home Window Repair
A stray pebble from the lawnmower or a large drink set on the coffee table with a glass top or a cracked window are just a few issues that can plague your windows at home.
These issues can be easily solved by you, without the need to call an expert. 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 baseball or a strong wind can break a window pane, leaving your home vulnerable to elements. It's not as complicated as it seems, and replacing just one pane is less expensive than purchasing a new window. You can replace a damaged pane of glass quickly and easily using a few simple tools.
Before you begin your work, put on the safety glasses and clear the area around the window of glass splinters and glass chards. Remove any old varnish or paint from the wood frame. Remove the saddle bars from the metal sash. Then with a utility knife, carefully pry away the trim from the window frames. Be careful to not pierce the lead of the current pane, and don't try to crack the glass itself too excessively.
If you're using a new pane, you can have it cut at an establishment that sells hardware to ensure that it is the right size. You should subtract 1/8 of an inch from the actual size of the opening to accommodate the glass. This is because wood expands and contract.
The majority of single pane windows are secured by a glaze putty and tiny metal clips referred to as glazier's point. Apply a generous amount of glazier's putty to the wood frame around one side of the glass that has been broken. Press glazier's points into the putty approximately every six inches. This will hold the window in position and allow you to reseal the frame later.
Before you apply any type of putty, wet your fingers with linseed oil and then run it over the wood's surface. 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 in time, so you should add some drops of Linseed oil to the mix to extend its lifespan. Once the putty is moist 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 leaves the window vulnerable to moisture, which can compromise its purpose and allowing it to let in warm or cold humidity. The first sign that a seal is broken is condensation or fog that forms between the two panes. Another sign is a noticeable difference in temperature of your home and the outside. A broken seal can cause windows to appear blurred or distorted as the vacuum-sealed gas escapes.
A window replacement is the only way to restore your windows back to their original state. Many double-paned modern windows come with warranties and can be easily replaced by the homeowner at no additional cost.
If your windows are under warranty, you'll want to take advantage of this option as soon as you can to save money on the cost of a full replacement. The warranty covers all labor and materials needed to repair or replace your windows.
Although you can replace windows yourself, the process is complex and requires special tools. Calling a professional installer is the best option. They will take out and clean your windows, ensuring that they are properly glazed, insulated, and shield your home from cold air, moisture, and hot sun.
Window replacement could also save money on your energy bills. Replacing old windows with new double pane windows can dramatically cut your heating and cooling costs. Plus upvc window repairs of modern windows is higher and they create an enviable environment for your home. The only drawback to replacing windows is the initial cost. However, this could be offset by the savings you'll see on your electricity bill in the future.
Sashes that won't let you open
A sash that isn't opening is more than just a nuisance. It could also be dangerous. The sash may fall down at any time, causing harm to any item on the sill, including pets and children. Fortunately, single and double-hung windows have balance mechanisms that keep the sash up and out of the way of the jambs. The problem could be that the sash isn't properly connected to these mechanisms, or it may require a reset or locked.
To fix this, begin by examining the window to determine if it is moving. If it doesn't move then try using a tool on the meeting rail between the upper and lower sashes join to break them apart. If the window is moving in any way, take the sash out of the window and place it on a flat surface to reach the sides. If the sash's spline is loose in just one or two places it is possible to employ a utility knife cut it apart at the corners. If the spline has been torn or broken completely it is necessary to replace it.
If the sash is still stuck, you might need to remove the front stop trim piece. Hardware stores sell special tools for this. A putty knife will also be useful. You'll also need to score the paint seal around the sash channels using your cutting tool and then remove screws that hold the stops in place. Once this is done you'll be able to lift the sash off the frame and reposition it correctly.
If the sash remains stuck, it's a sign that the balance shoe has slid to the bottom of the frame. It's simple to fix this by marking the location of the hinge channel, then remove the screw. Fill the screw holes with epoxy or wood filler and then scrape them clean before installing the channel. Once the hinge channel is back in place, just relock the balance pin by advancing it into the "U" position. Reposition the sash so that it is aligned with balance, and then test the window.
Wood Rot
Wood rot can cause structural damage to the structure of a house. Wet and dry rot are two of various forms. In both instances the damage is caused by the combination of moisture and fungus. Both wet and dried rot can be repaired. However, it's best to stop them at the source. Property owners should inspect for rot on areas that are susceptible to getting damp, such as outside window frames, timber beams, and basement subfloors. They should also inspect wood anywhere there are cracks and gaps.
If you find a hole the hole should be cleaned with a water-resistant wood filler and then filled. Once the wood has dries it is then stained to match the surrounding material. It is crucial to test the stain on a small part of the filler material prior applying it. This will ensure that the stain does not alter color, corrode or otherwise alter the look of your woodwork.
Wet rot is easy to spot and is often characterized by an unpleasant smell that is similar to soil that is rotting. It's also softer than wood that isn't infected and is therefore easier to feel with your hands. Dry rot however is more difficult to identify. This kind of fungus attack the cells of timber, causing them to disintegrate and break down.
Dry rot is more difficult to repair as it can penetrate further. It can be avoided, however by finding and fixing the source of moisture, like leaks or damp that penetrate. It is also essential to clean regularly your gutters to prevent the buildup of water that can cause leaks within your home or in a cellar that is flooded.
The risk of rot could be minimized by keeping crawlspaces and basements dry and making use of dehumidifiers. They should also be sure to regularly clean the sealant or caulking around doors and windows to prevent water from entering gaps. They must also replace any cracked or damaged timbers.