Windows discussions and local services.
gandalfskier
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RE: Wood-Clad Window Finish Failing or Just Due for Maintenance?
That slightly soft lower corner is the part I wouldn’t treat as just a refinishing issue. Before sanding or coating, probe a little beyond the visible discoloration with an awl or small pick, especially: - Along the sil...
RE: Sliding vs. double-hung vinyl windows: which install is less of a headache?
Funny, I thought swapping out my old aluminum sliders for double-hungs would be a breeze… turns out, “less headache” is pretty relative. Here’s what I ran into: with the sliders, I did appreciate that you can fudge the s...
RE: Big brands or local shops: which windows are actually better?
Honestly, you nailed a lot of what I ran into too. My place is a 1950s ranch with original windows until last year - let’s just say I could feel the wind blowing through the living room on a January night. I did a ton of...
RE: Battling drafty windows - what actually works in winter?
Can’t argue with the storm window route - mine aren’t much to look at, but they really cut down on the drafts. I’ve also tried the shrink-wrap plastic a few times and yeah, it just doesn’t stick well to old, bumpy plaste...
RE: Swapping out window hinges: do you go solo or call in the pros?
I get that, but I’ve actually had pretty good luck with careful patching, especially in my 1920s place. After digging out the soft stuff and treating with wood hardener, I filled gaps with epoxy and it’s held up for a fe...
RE: Would You Go With Classic Wood Windows Or Modern Vinyl After Swapping Yours Out?
Can totally relate to what you’re saying - when we went from old wood to vinyl double glazing, the cold drafts practically vanished overnight. For noise though, I had my hopes up but, yeah, not a dramatic difference. I d...
RE: How tricky is it to make a window bigger?
Making a window bigger is one of those projects that sounds simple in theory, but there’s a lot more to it once you start poking around in the wall. I did it in our living room last spring. We wanted more light, and I fi...
RE: What surprised me (and what went wrong) installing my own windows
Can’t argue with the heating bill going down, but I’ve actually found that sometimes you can go a little too far with the sealing - especially in these older houses. I did the foam and caulk thing all around my new windo...
RE: When the bugs invade: a backyard mystery with two types of screens
I know what you mean about the lint roller - tried it on my patio door once and it just felt like I was making more work for myself. Honestly, I’ve had better luck with a soft brush and a little soapy water. Here’s what ...
RE: Regretting My ReliaBilt Choice? Long-Term Durability Woes
Couldn’t agree more on that. Our ReliaBilt windows are about seven years old now, and I’ve learned that skipping a yearly check is just asking for trouble. I found a tiny split in the corner seal last spring - thought it...