Windows discussions and local services.
pat_carpenter
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Topics and replies this member has contributed.
RE: Why does mold love window sills so much?
That’s the worst - like, you’re expecting a little dust, not a petri dish. I’ve seen sills so rotten you could poke your finger through. Ever tried those peel-and-stick vapor barriers? Curious if they actually help or ju...
RE: Do DIY glass repair kits actually work or just a temporary fix?
Totally get where you’re coming from - those kits are kind of like duct tape for windows. They’ll hold things together for a while, especially with tiny chips or hairline cracks, but once the damage gets bigger or you’ve...
RE: GEAR THAT SAVED MY BUTT DURING WINDOW SWAP - WHAT’S YOUR CAN’T-LIVE-WITHOUT?
Suspenders always seemed like a good idea until I tried squeezing behind a stack of old storm windows - got snagged and nearly took the whole pile down with me. Honestly, I just stick to a lighter belt and stash extras i...
RE: Why sealing windows near the ocean is trickier than you’d think
Honestly, I hear you on the “set and forget” dream. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to mop up after a sneaky hose leak. Plumbing mods always sound simple until you’re elbows deep and realize the fittings don’t...
RE: Window fails in the news: That viral “backwards glass” install
That backwards glass viral clip cracked me up, but I’ve definitely had my own “doh” moments. One time I was so sure I had everything lined up right - turns out the IGU was flipped, so the low-e coating was facing inside....
RE: What would you do if your window guy suddenly changed the price?
Man, the “surprise math” line got me. I’ve been on both sides - installing and getting stuff installed - and it’s wild how often these little contract loopholes pop up. Had a customer once who thought we were trying to p...
RE: If these walls could talk: windows that changed everything
Yeah, that’s the truth - old windows are like cranky old neighbors: you’ve gotta approach ‘em slow and gentle or they’ll give you grief. I’ve tried all those “miracle” tools too, but nine times out of ten, I’m back to a ...
RE: Keeping the dust down when pulling out old windows
Been there. I once found plaster dust in my toaster a week later. Drop cloths help, but honestly, plastic sheeting taped around the work zone is a game changer. Also, if you’ve got a box fan, point it out the window you’...
RE: Can skylights and patio doors count for those energy tax credits?
Yeah, those labels are a nightmare. I’ve been doing this for years and half the time I’m squinting at the sticker, trying to remember if the U-factor or the SHGC is the magic number for whatever rebate’s on offer this mo...
RE: Windows icing up again - time for an upgrade or ghost story?
Haha, love the ghost theory - I mean, who wouldn't want to blame interior design choices on paranormal activity, right? But seriously, good call on the weatherstripping. Most folks underestimate how much those tiny gaps ...