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rachel_barkley
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RE: That time I learned the hard way that “dry heat” isn’t always better
Dry heat or not, those 70s aluminum sliders are a real pain when it comes to sealing out drafts. I’ve worked on a bunch of them over the years, and honestly, you’re right - magnetic seals just don’t stand a chance if the...
RE: Foggy Windows: The Mystery Of The Ghostly Condensation
That’s the truth - one soft spot in the sill and suddenly you’re knee-deep in wood hardener and replacement trim. Did you notice any mold or rot when you swapped the glass? Sometimes the condensation hides bigger issues,...
RE: Saw a story about DIY storm window fails - worth the risk or nah?
Honestly, I think folks overestimate how hard a wood frame insert really is - even with wonky window openings. Sure, it takes a little patience, but you can shim or pad out small gaps way easier than fussing with plastic...
RE: Struggling to pick windows that don’t make my ranch look dated
That’s classic - seems like every time I open up a wall in an older place, I find something weird like that. As for the original trim, honestly, after 50+ years, it’s usually a gamble. I’ve had a couple jobs where we man...
RE: CAN YOU REALLY DOUBLE DIP ON REBATES AND TAX CREDITS?
You nailed it - trying to stack rebates is like playing a game where nobody explains the rules, and the refs keep moving the goalposts. I’ve seen folks miss out just because a serial number was written wrong on a form. T...
RE: Getting the most LEED credits out of window upgrades – worth the hassle?
I hear you on the LEED paperwork headache - been there more times than I’d like to admit. The part about installers not always being up to speed rings true: Honestly, I think a lot of folks underestimate how much ti...
RE: Cheap and cheerful ways to dress up plain window frames
Funny you mention the dust on caulk - ran into the same thing on a rental job last year. Had to go back and repaint all the seams because they turned grimy so fast. I’ve always leaned toward real wood for trim, especiall...
RE: Which Is Better: Argon or Air Between Window Panes?
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve seen a lot of folks put too much faith in argon, like it’s some miracle fix for every draft and energy bill. It’s true, when it’s done right, argon does help with insulation - no ...
RE: When is condensation just normal vs. a sign my window’s busted?
I hear you, but I gotta say, I’ve seen some situations where a failed seal did more than just look ugly. Had a job last winter where the fogged glass was just the start - over a couple years, moisture got in and started ...
RE: Finally upgraded to Kolbe windows, anyone else notice a difference?
Interesting you mention mineral wool - I get why people like it, but honestly, I've had pretty good luck with spray foam around windows. Yeah, it's messy and a bit of a pain if you're not careful (ask me how I know...), ...