Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Window Repairs?

Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore

If your window doesn't open and close easily, it could be a sign of a failing seal. The expansion or contraction caused by heat can destroy seals in double pane windows over time, allowing moisture and dirt to get inside.

Wood rot is also a common problem in window sills and frames. Epoxy wood filler is an excellent option to save money on expensive repairs.

Chips and cracks

A window that is cracked can be risky. It exposes the glass to further damage and moisture, which can result in a mold issue. If you want to ensure that your family is secure and your windows in good condition it is essential to repair any chips or cracks immediately.

The most common things that could break your window are rocks and pebbles that are that are thrown by cars in the front of you, and even Dolichovespula maculata seeds (no it's not actually a plant, but an insect). Cracks in windows can be repaired.

This method is a good option to repair single-paned household glass or even double-paned windows with cracks only on one side. It won't work 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 will be repaired using glass cleaner. Utilize a pin or thumbtack to remove any loose glass fragments from the crack. You can also use rubbing alcohol or acetone to clean the surface and ensure that the repair material is adhered properly.

Some methods claim that a fixed crack is virtually undetectable. This is true for some kinds of repairs, but not for all, particularly small cracks. Repairing these cracks can help stop them from becoming bigger problems, and they may even stop the spread of these cracks.

If you'd like to create a crack that is completely invisible, then you need to find an option that makes use of super glue that is clear. This type of super glue does not swell as it dries, and won't cause more damage to the crack. Make sure you go through the directions carefully for your specific product to make the best decision.

For a solution that is more temporary you can try covering a crack or chip with clear nail polish. This can serve as an adhesive and slow the progress of the chip or crack. However, it's important to apply the polish slightly outside the edges of the crack to avoid damaging the integrity of the windshield.

Sashes that won't move

Many old windows are difficult to open because of the wood's swelling or decay, or because the cords and balance systems that move them upwards and downwards can break. However, often the issue is something simpler, such as dirt or other debris that has clogged up the mechanisms. It could be that the mechanism needs to be cleaned or lubricated.

The first step is to remove the frame of the sash. You can do this using a putty blade and some patience. Score the paint between the sashstop and jamb first, then carefully pry the two apart. Be careful not to break the sash stop or jamb, and then set the pieces aside to protect them.

After removing the sash you'll be able access the pocket piece as well as the front window stoppers. You can remove them with the help of a utility knife and then lower the top sash down to the sill. The bottom sash isn't as difficult than the top one to move however getting it all the way down can be a challenge as well. After you've lowered it completely using a screwdriver with a flat head to reset and lock your balance shoe (the little box that sits on the bottom of the window) so it can support the weight of the sash.

If the sash isn't staying in place, you might require replacing either the balance system or sash. This is usually much easier than you think, since replacement parts are quite affordable and are available from a variety of vendors. After you have replaced the balance system, or sash, you can check the sash to determine whether it's working as intended.

One other issue that can cause windows to be difficult to open is that the sash tilt pin is missing or falls out in the course of cleaning. This is easy to repair if you're handy but you should only try this on older windows that are safe to dismantle. If you're not handy then you'll need to engage a professional with expertise in the brand of window that you have.

Caps for drip Caps

If you're experiencing water around your window, it might be the time to upgrade your drip caps. The L-shaped flashing is positioned on top of the window after installation but before siding. It helps direct water away from your frame. It's a simple project that can help prevent water damage and will save you maintenance costs down the road.

Install a dam at the end of the window cap flashing to keep water from entering the trim at the ends. Simply use a pair of Tin snips to make a small "flap" on both sides of the trim. This fold can stop rain from falling off the edges of the flashing, and then down into the wood framing.

MS Windows and Doors also provides drip caps that have been pre-fabricated with an end dam. These drip caps are available in a variety of color options and can be included when you order your window.

While you're installing the new drip cap, be sure you put the head flashing under the sheathing that is above it. This is the same flashing you'll find under the J channel on the exterior trim. It is a good idea to not tape all the length of the head flashing, and only seal the corners.

The head flashing should be cut at a 45 degree angle on each corner, creating an opening, then it's folded back down and then taped with a skip to the sheathing. This creates a small opening for water to flow through the WRB into the sheathing of the house that is above the window.

You can seal the top edge of your drip cap once you have secured it to the sheathing. This will prevent moisture from getting into the wood of the window sill, the housewrap and siding that is above the window. Be aware that moisture could cause structural issues and wood rot, therefore it is important to stop moisture from getting into your home.

Sash Weights

The weights that are placed on windows (also called sashweights, or sashlines) help balance the sashes and prevent them from sliding when they are opened. The weights themselves might need to be replaced, or they may be tangled and need to be removed. It's also possible that the counter balances need to be replaced.

Pam examines the exterior of the window first to ensure there aren't any visible damage or rots that need to be dealt with prior to beginning the work. If there are visible signs of damage she'll need to do the necessary repairs prior to attempting the restoration of the windows.

She starts by removing the sash stops on the interior and the parting stops on each side of the window. This requires cutting the paint line on both sides of the interior sash stop using a utility knife, and prying it off with the help of a woodworking tool. Pam says this step is essential since if you try to pound the stops off using a mallet could cause cracks or even splits. She suggests a small hand-held woodworking tool that has an angled blade.

After removing the stops she can then remove the sashes. She removes the bottom sash, then the top. Pam Lubricates the sash cords before pulling them out, so that they move smoothly.  window repair near  pulls the cord and locate the hooks of metal that are attached to each sash. These are usually worn out and need to be replaced. Then, she pulls one of the old sash weights from its pocket and screws in a new one.

She weighs the sash using an instrument and then checks the weights. She replaces the weight with one that's equivalent to the weight of the sash. Repeat the process for the second sash, to ensure that it is balanced. After the sashes are back in place and she's used a level to make sure they're level. She also lubricates the cords in order so that they slide more easily, and tightens the counter-balance hooks.