Step-By-Step Guide On How To Repair A Window In Your Home
Like most structures at home, windows have a limited lifespan. At one point you will need to do a window repair. It can be a leak or a gap between the frame and the sash. Over time, opening and closing a window becomes hectic. If you have seen noticeable changes, it is time for a repair.
Power inefficiency is the other sign of a weak spot in a home window. If you notice an unusual hike in energy cost, your windows might be too drafty. This could increase the energy needed to keep the house heaters running. Condensation between the window panes is an indication that the house is losing heat through the windows. Here is a simple guide on how to repair a house window written by Glazier Rob Sprague:
The Process of Repairing a Home Window
Before you start a window repair, it is important to have the right parts. A new window requires thorough modifications. A window for repair, or insert window comes without fins or nailing so it can fit into the existing frame (the best option).
Precisely measure the window space
The process starts with checking the interior dimensions. These include the width and height; while taking note of the smallest measurements. It is important to leave enough space for the stops (the parts that protect the sash from falling).
Remove old stops and trim
This should be done with extreme care. The surrounding materials of the old window are very delicate and must not be damaged. The best instruments to use include a utility knife, screwdriver, and pry bar to remove the trim and stops. A knife slices the paint that is embedded in the stops on the frame. Stops must remain intact for later use.
Cut sash cords, weights, and pulleys from the old window
Some windows comprise of these elements. The weights must be handled and disposed of with great care because they have traces of lead. Any exposed rope must be cut off to allow the sash to slide down. Before a replacement window is installed, it has to be cleaned. Holes should be filled with fiberglass insulation or tufts.
Rough installation
The new window has to be fitted into the existing opening before caulking or nailing. When the shim fits properly, it is imperative to mark where exactly they will go. Shimming is fundamental as no replacement window can fit by itself. But there is no need to depend on the shims too much. When the gap seems too wide, it means the replacement window is not correct. It is advisable to take the old window to the supplier so they can get the right dimensions of the replacement window.
Remove the clips
A replacement window features hard plastic or the packing clips above the movable trash. The supporting clips protect the sash from rough commotion during transportation. They should be unscrewed and stashed away before the actual installation. The remaining holes must be covered with screws.
Fitting the header
The sill needs caulking using a 3/8″ sealant. The window is then placed on the opening while carefully examining the corners. Note that the shims can be knocked off in the process and so care must be taken. Mounting the window should be easy using the available screws on side jambs. The screws must not be over tightened. To close the gap between the frame and the new window, the header has to move up and screwed up to fix it.
The test
Both sashes must be tested to ensure that they slide smoothly. In case they are too tight, the adjustment screw can be used to loosen them a bit. The other option is to use thinner shims and disconnect the protruding ends using a miter saw.
Caulking and stopping
The interior of the newly installed window needs caulking. The stops that were kept aside come in handy at this point. They are installed with smaller screws.
When it comes to window repair, the most important thing is to figure out the best material for the frame. For each type of material, from vinyl, aluminum to wood, there are special factors to consider. Wooden frames should be protected from moisture to avoid warping. Aluminum frames can rust if exposed to the weather. On the other hand, vinyl requires minimal upkeep and is both weather and water-resistant.