Home owners have used storm windows to prevent air infiltration during bad weather. The good thing about these windows is that you need not replace them during hot weather since they can easily be adjusted to bring in cool air. Due to the exposure to harsh weather, which could include heavy pounding by the storms, the storm windows will require maintenance repairs when the need arises.
When repairing the storm window, you will need the following:
- Ample working area
- Utility knives, screwdrivers, scratch awl or an ice pick
- Piece of cloth
- Vacuum (preferably a hand held one)
- Brittle paintbrush, steel wool and a fine sandpaper
- Window glaze, silicone caulking, glass, screen, screws, silicone spray and a substitute screen molding.
Repairing the storm window
- Remove the storm window and place it in your working area. However, if there are any broken windows, remove them first before disengaging the window from the wall. The utility knife comes in hardy at this point, since you will use it to break the glass sealant. If you only need to replace the screen, try doing it without taking out the entire window. If removing the window is inevitable, ensure that your working area is comfortable and away from where family members walk or play.
- Once the window is laid down on the ground, trace the edge of the molding, scrap it off and gently remove the screen. Use the old screen to cut the exact pattern on the new screen. When this is done, you will have an easy time replacing the screen. Next, use new molding to hold the screen firmly against the window frame. If you will need to replace the glass, take out the glass holders first and ensure that no pieces remain on the window frame. Next, use a piece of sand paper or steel wool to scrap off any remaining glass from the frame. Insert the new glass on the frame casements and check whether they have fitted well. Finally, put the glass holders back, clean the area where you will re-install the window and put back the window combination.
- For windows that won’t slide easily, try spraying lubricant on the tracks. Make sure to clear all weep holes to avoid condensation of air along the window. Repositioning the window will require you to lever the sides of the window, a procedure which will require you to unscrew the window first and then screw it back into its rightful position.