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Today's
Fix old windows with easy-to-use repair kits Q: Our old double-hung windows are leaky, hard to clean and sweat, but the frames are in good shape. I cannot afford new windows, but I must do something. Are there any good-quality repair kits I can use - Mike S. A: Your situation is not uncommon. The best solution to your problem is installing do-it-yourself replacement tilt-in window sash kits. Installing these kits make old windows almost as efficient, condensation-free, easy-to-clean and attractive as completely new replacement windows. They are simple to install yourself. Many major replacement window manufacturers also make these high-quality repair kits. These kits offer many high-efficiency glass options that are applicable for every climate. As a minimum, choose double pane low-emissivity glass, with or without argon gas in the gap. In warm climates, select a tinted glass for better glare and summer heat gain control. For ease of cleaning, especially on second-floor windows, select kits that have tilt-in pivots. Each window sash will tilt-in just like new replacement windows do. The double pane low-e glass also reduces furniture and carpet fading and extends their life for additional savings. Since your existing window frames are in better condition than your budget, installing just a sash kit makes good economic sense. There is no need to have the expense of replacing the frames too. The airtightness of the sash and the type of glass have much greater impact on your utility bills, window condensation and your comfort than does the window frame itself. If you are remodeling an older house, these kits are often the best option, regardless of budget considerations. Many older window frames have uniquely attractive profiles that you may not want to replace with entirely new windows. If your budget is limited, you can install just one or two window sash kits at a time. By not changing the frame, the new windows will still match the old ones. These tilt-in sash kits are available in hundreds of standard sizes to fit almost any existing window frame. If your old window frames are an odd size, most of the manufacturers will make custom-sized kits to fit your frames. As long as you follow the manufacturer's initial measuring instruction carefully, you will get a perfect fit. Most tilt-in sash kits are available with natural (to be stained) or painted wood indoor sash surfaces. You can specify different outdoor surface finishes to match your home or for the lowest maintenance. Aluminum-clad outdoor frames are virtually maintenance-free. The standard colors are white, beige, green, bronze and brown with custom colors available at an extra charge. Although each manufacturer's kit has its own specific design, most typically include the two sash, all hardware, locks, tilt-in pivots or cams. The key selection criteria are the styling of the sash, glass options and the convenience features. You can usually order these kits at most major home center or building product supply outlets. The high-efficiency sashes are generally the most expensive parts of any new or replacement window. The majority of your savings with these kits is from installing them yourself and from a reduction in your utility bills. Almost all the kits include simple instructions and many have instructional video tapes. Anyone with basic do-it-yourself skills can do it. One easy-to-install kit, EZ Tilt Pac, requires only a screwdriver, pry bar or putty knife, pliers and a hammer. Pry away the old sash stops and lift out the old sash. Tack in jamb liner brackets and snap in the new jamb liners. Install the top sash first with the tilt-in pivots in the jamb liner. Next install the small sash stops and then set the lower sash in place. If your budget is very tight and your main problems are air leaks and the window sash not staying open, just install a low-cost replacement channel kit. These kits (called "Window Fixer Channels" by Quaker), will make the window fit snugly in the old window frame. If your old windows use counterbalance weights, these channel kits replace them. The windows will still slide up and down easily. You can install a complete kit in about 30 minutes. Write for (or instantly download - www.dulley.com) Utility Bills Update No. 932 - buyer's guide of double-hung tilt-in sash replacement and channel kits. Please include $3.00 and a business-size SASE. Mail to: Jim Dulley, Illinois Country Living, P.O. Box 3787, Springfield, IL 62708.
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James Dulley is a mechanical engineer who writes on a wide variety of energy and utility topics. His column appears in a large number of daily newspapers. Copyright 1999 James Dulley 20 ILLINOIS COUNTRY LIVING JUNE 1999 |
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