Storm Window Repair Hints

Repairing a storm window is one of the most common home improvement tasks performed by homeowners across the nation. Many of the common problems that occur with storm windows are associated with the ageing of the window and the problems can generally be repaired instead of the homeowner having to replace the entire window. Most of the repairs that will need to done on storm windows will be quick and simple, but following some storm window repair hints will make the process even easier.

Hint Number 1 – Repairing Cracked Or Broken Glazing

Repairing cracked or broken glazing is one of the most common issues facing homeowners repairing their storm windows. Additional glazing can be purchased at nearly every home improvement store and should be measured to be 1/16 inch, or 2mm, smaller than the inside of the window frame to allow for the regular expansion and contraction of the glazing.

If the glazing is cut to match the frame exactly, the glazing will crack when it expands, and if the glazing is cut any smaller, it may fall out of the frame when the glazing contracts.

Hint Number 2 – Preventing Excessive Condensation

Excessive condensation on the window can cause the window to age more quickly, so it is important for the homeowner to ensure that there is not excessive condensation on the window. This can be accomplished by periodically checking the small vent holes located at the bottom of the storm window to ensure that they are open. It is when these small holes become clogged with dirt, debris, or paint that excessive condensation begins to form on the windows.

If you notice that the vent holes at the bottom of your storm windows have become clogged, fixing the problem will only take a few minutes of your time. Find a tool that is about the same diameter as the vent holes, such as an awl or small screwdriver, and push them through each vent hole. This pushes the dirt and debris to the outside of the window, eliminating the need for cleaning up afterward.

Hint Number 3 – Be Careful Where You Paint

Many homeowners decide to paint around the frame and the sash of their storm windows to make them more attractive, but painting in the wrong areas can cause many problems for the homeowner. When painting an aluminum window frame, be sure to use a primer that is intended for galvanized metal and that this is specifically indicated on the label. Using any other type of primer may not allow the paint to stick properly and the paint will begin to peel off, ruining your painting job.

One of the worst places where paint can cause a problem is in the tracks of the window because paint in this area will cause the window to stop moving smoothly when it is opened and closed. It is best to avoid painting in this area altogether. Painting around the frame of the storm window can also clog the vent holes that are placed at the bottom of the window for ventilation and preventing condensation, which will need to be reopened after the painting is done.