Windows discussions and local services.
rbiker89
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RE: Weird bends in wood shelves - normal or am I doing something wrong?
That tracks with what I’ve seen. Wood products just don’t stand a chance in a damp basement, no matter how much you seal or paint. Even pressure-treated stuff will eventually warp if the humidity’s high enough. Metal she...
RE: Total blackout or layered curtains: which actually works better?
Layered curtains are definitely more effective than any of those magnetic stoppers, especially with older or uneven window frames. I’ve run into the same issue - magnets just don’t cut it when the surface isn’t perfectly...
RE: Cheap tricks for keeping car windows clear in the morning
Honestly, the only thing that really worked for me was tracking down the source, like you did. I tried those silica gel packs and even cracked the windows a bit at night - didn’t make much difference. Once I replaced the...
RE: Why is outside noise STILL getting through my windows?
Yeah, those old wood frames are sneaky. I used to think it was just the glass letting in sound, but after prying off some trim, I found gaps big enough to lose your keys in. Filled them with foam and backer rod too - def...
RE: How I dodged a window contractor nightmare (and actually got great windows)
That’s been my experience too. When I had to replace a window in my 1938 place, I spotted some questionable framing and just asked directly. Didn’t hover, but didn’t ignore it either. It’s a fine line - if you’re respect...
RE: CHOOSING BETWEEN MARVIN AND OLD INTEGRITY WINDOWS – ANY REGRETS?
That’s been my experience too. I put in new Marvins on the main floor (2017) and left the old Integrity units in the attic, and honestly, the difference in comfort came down to how obsessive I got with sealing everything...
RE: Swapping out old window handles - worth the hassle?
Definitely not just your luck. Builder-grade handles from the 90s are notoriously inconsistent. I’ve had to drill new pilot holes more than once because the spacing never matches up, even when the specs claim they should...
RE: Keeping the heat in without cranking up the thermostat
Cutting into plaster always feels like a gamble - sometimes I swear the wall’s about to crumble just from looking at it sideways. I get what you mean about HRVs, though. I put one in my 1940s place and yeah, the install ...
RE: Keeping Cool: Best Window Choices for Sweltering Summers?
Did this a couple years back on my 60s ranch, also in the desert. Low-E glass does help, but I found the real difference came from making sure the gaps around the window were sealed tight - use good expanding foam and do...
RE: Rain sneaking in around my window - caulk or weather stripping?
Good catch on checking higher up first. Flashing issues are notoriously deceptive - I've chased phantom leaks myself, convinced it was the window seal, only to find a tiny gap in the siding two feet above. Glad you sorte...