Windows discussions and local services.
etail38
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RE: Ever notice how old houses have weirdly sized windows?
Cracks around windows can be tough to read, but here’s how I usually break it down: First, check if the crack is wider than a nickel - if it is, or if you notice it growing over a few months, that’s worth watching. Next,...
RE: Ever notice how double glazing can cut down on street noise too?
Funny you mention the draughts - my place is a 1930s semi and it’s been a bit of a puzzle figuring out where those sneaky breezes come from, even after swapping to double glazing. I did a little detective work with a can...
RE: Making sense of window upgrades: swapping air for argon
You’re spot on about chasing your tail with these old houses. I’ve lived in mine since the late 90s, and every time I thought I’d sealed up a draft, another one would pop up somewhere else - usually in the least convenie...
RE: Choosing between slim and wide frames for big windows
You’re not wrong about the tradeoff. I got sucked into the slim frame trend too - looked incredible on the showroom floor, but the first winter was brutal. I ended up doing a lot of research on thermal breaks and frame m...
RE: Tried silica gel packs for foggy windows - worth it or just a gimmick?
I fell into the silica gel trap a few years back when the kitchen window started fogging up every time the weather swung. Figured I could outsmart the moisture with a handful of those packets - tucked them along the sill...
RE: How I spotted a shady window installer (and what tipped me off)
That’s spot on. I’ve owned my place for 20+ years and honestly, air leaks have almost never been about the windows themselves. The installer I almost hired didn’t even look at the attic hatch or rim joists - just went st...
RE: Stormy Nights and Drippy Windows: Quick Fixes That Actually Help
Definitely agree about the window film kits - they work, but if you rush the install, you’re staring at those weird bubbles all winter. One thing I’ve found helpful: clean the frame with rubbing alcohol first, then go sl...
RE: CHEAP WAYS TO KEEP THE COLD OUT OF OLD WINDOWS?
I get the appeal of doubling up with film and caulk, but I actually had better luck with those old-school storm windows - if you can find them. They’re not cheap up front, but after I put them on the outside of my 1920s ...
RE: Unexpected challenges of putting in windows off the grid
Copper mesh is definitely the way to go for long-term mouse proofing, especially in damp climates. I used to rely on steel wool too, but after a couple of rainy seasons here, it just crumbled away and the mice were right...
RE: Windows That Can Handle Ocean Air - Any Recommendations?
Couldn’t agree more about the prep. I learned the hard way - first year in this house, I figured “marine grade” meant I could skip the fiddly bits. Nope. Six months in, hinges looked like they’d been dredged up from a sh...