Storm windows.
When it comes to windows, people generally have one of three things in mind. Decor, energy savings, and protection from the elements. What if you could install windows that served up a dose of all three, saving you money on energy, protecting you from storms, and adding to the design of your home? Then you need to look no further: storm windows can handle each of those jobs.
But what about your current window situation? If you've never installed windows before, let alone storm windows, here are some quick tips that should help you find your bearings.
First, be clear about what you need. What do you need in order to install storm windows and replace your old windows? You'll need to take clear measurements and know exactly how many windows you're going to replace before you even think about acquiring the storm windows that work for you. If you're working with a contractor, then you need to make it clear to them that you have special needs, so communicate any of the special desires you might have.
Second, find the right storm windows. If you want this installation to be a one-and-done type deal, you're going to need to make sure that the storm windows you're installing will fit in with the decor around your home. It will help to get an outside opinion on this one, and this can be a great time to include your spouse in on the storm windows decisions. Some people are intimidated by the phrase "storm windows," but you'd be surprised to learn the variety of storm windows that are available.
Third, make sure the windows have a tight seal. If you've done your homework and know what kind of windows you're purchasing, there's a good chance your windows should fit nice and snug into your home. You want a snug fit, because a tight seal for your storm windows will help keep the elements (and temperature) outside. If you have a little extra space, you can caulk the small gaps, but make sure that the bottom edge of your storm window stays sealed and totally uncaulked so that no water gets through.
If you follow those three principles, you should have success with installing storm windows, even if it's your first time undertaking any kind of serious home improvement project. Now, enjoy the comfort that comes with energy-conserving, storm-resistant windows!
Photo Credits: Nieve44/La Luz
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Posted by Fix Handyman on December 31, 2009 in
Handyman, How to Fix, windows
Window won't budge?
It's warm outside and you want to get to the window to allow a fresh breeze in the living room. The problem? You pull on the window and it seems jammed! You check the lock; sure enough, it's still locked. You unlock it and go to pull the window again. No luck. Now what do you do? If you're still wondering that, then you're reading the right article. Here we'll tackle those stubborn windows that won't open even though you know they can.
If your window is a new one, or if a fresh coat of paint has been applied after the window was installed, then you'll want to take a look at the coat of paint and how it's interacting with the window. Sometimes, windows can be painted shut by paint that has been allowed to dry where the window should normally be allowed to move. Check this paint; if it looks like the paint might be getting in the way, use a razor knife and carefully cut the paint between the "stop" and the "sash." The "stop" refers to a window's frame on the house side of your window. The "sash" is the moving section of your window.
If you've done this and still are having trouble with the window sash not moving, then you're going to want to move on to the next level.
Now it's time to check the other parts of the window that are key to allowing movement. Check out pieces like the parting strip or the jamb. Once you take a step back and look at the areas of the window that should be working but aren't, you should have a better idea of what might need fixing. If you can confirm that each individual part is working, knock it off your list - a process of elimination might help you diagnose the real problem.
It's not an uncommon problem to have windows that seem heavier than they are because of slow-moving parts or parts that aren't quite working properly. If you use this window as a learning experience, you should have a better idea of all of the elements that go into making a window move effortlessly; use this knowledge to not only fix the window that is having the difficulties, but any future windows in your home that might require struggling to get them open.
Photo credits: David 23
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Posted by Fix Handyman on December 5, 2009 in
Handyman, How to Fix, windows
Patch that screen!
In the summertime, we like to keep the doors open to allow the warm breezes in but the screens still locked to keep the bugs out. Of course, a screen is only effective as long as it's in one piece - and if you have a screen that's patchy or has one glaring hole, it's time to either repair it or replace it. This article will help you understand which option you may need to pursue.
Repairing a Patchy Screen
Believe it or not, repairing a screen isn't a highly complicated affair, involving the stitching of small metal wiring. Actually, you can purchase screen patches that clip on to the rest of your screen at hardware stores and online - but keep in mind that these patches will only fill smaller holes, typically up to three inches in diameter. When you purchase one of these screens patches, you'll need to know how large the hole you're repairing is, and then buy about a half an inch more than that. Make sure to measure the hole you're repairing before you make your purchase.
The patch of screen you're buying will typically have long ends that you can intertwine with the rest of the screen to make it as unnoticeable as possible. Keep in mind that if you have smaller holes in your screening, then you'll be able to use smaller repairs, such as household cementer or even glue.
Replacing a Patchy Screen
Of course, there's a tremendous difference between a screen that has a few tiny holes in it and a screen with one gaping monstrosity of a hole: how you repair it. In the case of these large holes, you're better off simply purchasing a new screen to replace the old one. Install it yourself to save money, and it won't necessarily be a big expense.
To get a good idea of how your screen works, pay attention to how the old screen was put in place. This will help a lot if you're not familiar with household construction at all, as it will give you some context regarding screen installation. Once you've made a couple of notes, prepare the frame for installation and cut down your screen to the right size. Never try to cut a screen to exactly the right size - you're better off overestimating so that any mistakes can be easily corrected with new cuts.
Those are the two most effective ways of fixing your household screen. How much repair does your screen need? Only you can say.
Photo Credits: General Wesc
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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 12, 2009 in
Handyman, How to Fix, doors, windows
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