Windows discussions and local services.
matthew_campbell
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Triple pane vs double pane windows: worth the upgrade or just extra cost?
- Had a similar situation with our '70s split-level. Upgraded to triple pane in the bedrooms - noticeable drop in street noise, but not much difference on the heating bill at first. - Realized later that the crawlspace i...
RE: Things I wish I’d known before swapping out my old windows
- Definitely relate to the noise regret. I cheaped out on my first set and thought “glass is glass” too. Ended up with a bedroom that sounded like a bus stop - lesson learned. - Condensation surprised me as well. Turns o...
RE: Do DIY glass repair kits actually work or just a temporary fix?
- I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had better luck with these kits, at least for single-pane windows. - Used one on an old kitchen window (probably 1970s glass) after a branch hit it. The crack was about...
RE: Letting in more light without roasting your living room
- Had the same debate after moving into a house with giant south-facing windows. - Tried those reflective films - worked okay, but made the view weird and didn’t last long before peeling. - - I’m with you on the r...
RE: How I spotted a shady window installer (and what tipped me off)
- 100% agree - I've seen guys just run a bead and call it good, but if the flashing's wrong, it's pointless. - IR cameras are solid, but yeah, temp guns can be finicky. I’ve had to double check readings more than once. -...
RE: Why is spotting rotten window frames so tricky?
- Totally agree - paint hides a ton, and meters can only tell you so much. - I’ve had frames that looked solid until I pressed near the sill, then my screwdriver went right through. - Sometimes it’s just years of layered...
RE: Which is more annoying: smart window disconnects or battery problems?
- Tilt-mounts do help a bit with snow, but they're not a magic fix. I put in an adjustable rack two winters ago - snow slides off faster, but if it’s heavy and wet, it still piles up. Plus, adjusting them isn’t super con...
RE: Budgeting for new windows - how do you approach it?
- Couldn’t agree more on the prep work sneaking up - my 1950s place had trim that basically crumbled when I touched it. - I always factor in a “surprise” line item for stuff like rotten sills or weird gaps you only fin...
RE: Finally Beat the Foggy Window Battle This Winter
Right there with you - my place is late-60s and I swear the walls move when I’m not looking. Shims everywhere, and a lot of “good enough” moments. On the finish, here’s what I’ve noticed: - Sun exposure definitely matt...
RE: Easy ways to keep your windows from aging too fast
Haven't tried layering them myself, but your logic makes sense. A thin silicone coat for regular touch-ups and PTFE before heavy rains might balance things out. Might test it on a smaller window first though, just to avo...