Window Repair You Can Make Yourself
Windows are an important feature of your home, but if they’re not properly taken care of, they can become dangerous and affect your energy efficiency. Luckily, there are some simple window repairs you can make yourself. For more tips, read on Handyman Naperville IL.
First, remove any broken pieces of glass and metal glazing points from the frame. Be sure to wear eye protection and thick gloves, because shards can cut your hands.
A broken sash cord is one of the most common problems with double-hung windows. It can be caused by many things, including weather exposure, improper window installation, and age. In either case, it can make it difficult to open and close your window.
When a sash cord breaks, it needs to be repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the window frame and window sash. A broken sash cord can be fixed by replacing the old sash cord with a new window cord that has been cut to the right length.
To replace a broken sash cord, begin by removing the access panel in the window frame. If the panel is held in place by a parting strip, use a chisel to pry it free as far up the jamb as necessary.
With the access panel removed, you should be able to see two cast-iron weights in the pocket that sits between the top and bottom sash. These weights balance the weight of the sash and the counterweight that is pulled by the sash cord.
If the sash cord is still attached to the weights, remove it and set it on some cardboard. You can then replace it with the new sash cord that you purchased.
Once the cord is replaced, thread it over each of the pulleys and down into a channel that is within the window frame. Next, tie a figure-of-eight knot in the end of the cord to prevent the weight from slipping off. Repeat for the other side.
You can find replacement window cord at a hardware store or home center. The cord is usually made of cotton, which is the best material for windows because it will not stretch and sag over time.
After replacing the cord, you can put the sash back into the frame and test it to ensure that everything is working properly. If it is not, you may need to re-lubricate the pulleys or the weights or replace some beads that are loose or damaged.
When you have double-pane windows installed in your home, they are designed to keep your temperature steady and prevent ice or water from forming between the two panes of glass. This is a very effective way to cut your energy bills and add comfort to your home.
When the seal between the window sash and the insulated glass unit (IGU) breaks, it allows moisture to enter the sealed unit, which causes fogging or condensation inside your double-paned windows. If left untreated, this type of fogging can lead to permanent etching on the glass.
Fortunately, there are several ways that you can repair foggy double-paned windows. However, if you want to fix this issue permanently and avoid further damage, the only real solution is to replace the entire sealed unit of your windows.
One of the easiest and least expensive fixes to foggy double-paned windows is to reseal the glass. Typically, this involves drilling tiny holes in the glass and then applying an anti-fog solution to the inside of your window.
After the fog clears, it’s time to plug the holes using weatherproof silicone caulk. This will stop any further moisture from entering the unit and will also make your window look cleaner!
Another option is to use a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is a device that removes maximum moisture from the air, which can help to eliminate your foggy double-pane windows.
It’s important to place the dehumidifier next to your window, so that it can remove as much moisture as possible from between the glass panes. It may take a few days, but eventually, the moisture will be gone, and you’ll be able to see your windows again!
If you aren’t comfortable doing this work yourself, you can find a local repair specialist that will do the job for you. This will save you money, but you will still need to pay for the replacement of the whole sealed double-pane window unit.
