The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Window Repairs Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money

Window repairs can save homeowners time and money. Sometimes, replacing old windows can be more cost-effective.

Cracks or holes in windows' glass are usually caused by stray baseballs and projectiles. With the right tools, these are simple fixes.

If the frame of the unit is decayed It is recommended to replace the entire unit.

Broken or cracked glass

A bad storm or a stray piece of debris from the lawnmower, or even your favorite vase set down too hard could crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately, a little time and effort can prevent the cracks from getting any worse and save you the expense of replacing glass.


First, take out the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off any molding, trim or glazing putty that is holding the glass in the frame. You may have to use an utility knife to get rid of any glass fragments that are stuck to the frame.

After removing the window, clean the surrounding area and the surface thoroughly. This will help prevent the glue used to stick the glass back in place from leaking and causing further damage. Make sure that the new glass fits well. If the new glass is bigger than the previous piece, you'll have to employ a circular or mitersaw to cut it down.

Once your surface is clean, locate a glass adhesive that's specifically designed for window glass and follow the instructions on how to apply it. Then, you can reinstall the glass into your window sash. Avoid flexing or moving the glass during this process as it could cause the crack to grow.

You can also apply a product such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill in the crack and seal it. It is designed to work on all kinds of glass, including tinted versions. Just be aware that this kind of repair will not fully cover the crack, therefore it's not a good solution for windows that are easily visible from the outside.

Epoxy is another alternative. It's more time-consuming, however it offers the highest seal and can make your glass break virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy, you'll need to clean your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. Also, you'll need be prepared for any abrupt weather changes that could cause the crack to widen and then widen again. If you are not confident using these DIY methods or if the cracked glass is very large or two-paned, it's recommended to consult a professional.

Sashes that won't let you open

A window that doesn't remain up is more than just a nuisance; it could be a danger. Double- and single-hung windows have balancing mechanisms that assist in stopping the sash from sliding up and down within the jambs. However, one or more of these mechanisms can be damaged or removed. Check the pivot bar as well as balance shoes to see if either or both are dislodged. You'll have to replace the balance bar and pivot shoe if they've become dislodged.

Moisture can trigger cycles of expansion and contraction in the frames of sash windows that are made of timber. Over time, this can weaken the joints of the frame and cause them to become stuck. You can repair this problem without removing the window, if you use a utility knife to break the frame joints. If your wood appears to be swollen, it is usually due to the absence of flashing on the exterior of your home that allows water to enter the frame.

A snapped sash cable is another common cause of windows not opening. It is possible to reconnect the cord by pulling the cord (pliers could be beneficial) and then sliding the sash back to its original position. If the cord is damaged, you'll need to replace it.

RepairMyWindowsAndDoors can also make a window difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of double-hung windows has been closed with paint it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint using an utility knife and attempting to move it. If this fails, you will need remove the sash, and then cut the gap between the sash and stop, parting strip or jamb on both sides of the window (Photo 1).

The sash shoes used in single-hung windows are usually made from plastic or metal. These shoes come with a U-shaped slot them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place in the sash. To unlock the shoe using a screwdriver and turn the slot to the side by following the image 2. Then move the sash back and forth to see whether it is working correctly.

Rotting Wood

Wood rot isn't just ugly it's a real threat to the structural integrity of the part of the home it's infiltrating. The fungus that causes it feeds on moisture and transforms wood beams, walls, and joists into a soggy mucus. To prevent rot, you should ensure that your home is well maintained and the areas that are exposed to the elements are well secured. Even if you're vigilant, one missed painting session or clogged gutter or a minor roof leak can expose your windows as well as porch columns and other parts of the home to decay organisms.

Most wood rots are caused by excessive moisture, which is usually caused by rainwater seepage or condensation. The latter can happen when damp proofing isn't installed or damaged, or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall are affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures.

The first step in repairing the rot is to take off the old material. It is usually easy using a pry bar but using a combination of hammer as well as chisel may be necessary for the most difficult spots. Once the rotten wood is removed, the gap has to be filled and sealed. There are a variety of wood fillers to choose from, and the best product will depend on the amount of work you want to complete, the depth of the hole is and how much of the frame is left to be saved.

If the rot is too deep for a simple filler then you'll have to replace the damaged area. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional or by doing it yourself. This is a more complex project, however, and requires expert carpentry skills to complete the task correctly. If you're not sure of your skills at DIY it is recommended to call in an expert.

Repairing rotting wood can be accomplished however it is simpler (and less expensive) to prevent the problem in the first place. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk, and installing a drip edge on the roof to stop water from splashing onto exterior trim. Also, you should look for signs of excessive humidity around your window and consider using a dehumidifier in order to keep moisture levels in check.

Dirty Seals

Water dripping around or under a window is likely to be the most obvious indicator that window seals are shrinking. Sometimes this is obvious however, it is often hidden in a wall and more difficult to locate. This can result in soft wood, mold and even structural damage in your RV. Regular cleaning and inspections are the best way to protect windows. You can spot soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while checking.

Windows that have a haze of fog are an indication of a weak seal. Although they may not cause structural damage or increase your electric bill, they can detract from the aesthetics of your RV.

The weather is the main factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand while in colder temperatures, they shrink. This effect can be reduced by storing your camper underneath cover and keeping it away from direct sun. A simple car wash will assist in preventing the salt from damaging the seals of your window.

Other factors that contribute to window seal failure include cleaning the seals using brushes and washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that break down the rubber. Seals can become brittle, and more susceptible to cracking. The best way to prevent this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows, and to keep the windows and sash tracks clean with a dry brush.

Performing these routine maintenance tasks is the cheapest and easiest method to safeguard the windows of your RV. This will also give you the opportunity to examine the seals on your windows and make any necessary repairs.

It's more expensive have your window seals lubricated, or replaced with 303 Protectant spray. However, it's still less expensive than fixing water damage caused by failed sealing. This is a simple DIY project that will extend the lifespan of your windows in your RV and save you money.