DIY Network

Windows and Foundations From "Talk2DIY Home Improvement" episode TTD-413F

In this installment of Talk2DIY: Home Improvement hosts Brad Staggs and Lynda Lyday tackle your window and foundation problems. David Koester, a window expert, help Brad and Lynda answer some problematic window questions.

Hosts Brad Staggs and Lynda Lyday get right into the questions --

Condensation on Windows

Problem: I have major condensation on my windows. What should I do?

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Figure A

Solution:

• Window needs to be replaced altogether in order to solve condensation problem.

• Once windows are purchased you can replace the windows yourself by first removing the window and trim (figure A) and then replacing them.

Windows Won't Stay Open

Problem: Can you tell me what to do about windows that won't stay open?

Solution:

• The balance system which holds the window open has failed.

• Contact your window manufacturer to get parts to replace the window sliders and springs.

Glass Block Windows

Problem: What are my options when it comes to choosing glass block windows?

Solution:

• A great option is purchasing a glass block installation kit (figure B), which allows one to place glass blocks in a snap window track and sealing it.

• Place spacers on the side of the glass blocks and slide the blocks in tracks (figure C).

• When finish placing glass blocks in tracks, place final track on top and seal off with silicone.

Figure B

Figure C

Replacing Slider Windows

Problem: I need to replace my slider windows. Do you have any advice?

Solution:

• Instead of replacing a whole window unit, purchase a pocket window replacement system.

• Pull slider window out which will create a pocket so that a new window can slide into the window frame.

Leaky Windows

Problem: I have a Palladian window that leaks. What can I do to take care of this problem?

Solution:

• Find out exactly where window leak is coming from. It can be from a clogged or plugged weep hole in the window.

• Test to see where the leak is coming from by pouring a small cup of water in top of weep hole to make sure it is getting drainage.

• If weep hole is not getting drainage clean that weep hole out and test again until problem is solved.

Cracks in the Foundation

Problem: My home's foundation has some cracks. Do you know what causes this problem?

Solution:

• A few things that may cause cracks in the foundation are hydrastic pressure and water soaks in the earth.

• Another issue that may cause cracks in the foundation is the initial installation of foundation including mixing materials, forms or not vibrating the concrete.

Sinking Foundation

Problem: The foundation of my home seems to be sinking. What can cause this and what can I do to remedy the situation?

Solution:

• Water pouring from gutters can spill out and puddle around house placing pressure against foundation wall causing a crack, make the house settle more.

• Placing a catch plate under the drain pipe or adding a drainage system like a French drain, can help regulate the problem.

Foundation Options

Problem: What are my options when considering a foundation? Is a wall slab or basement better in the long run?

Solution:

• A stem wall slab may not be the best option for it is not allowed in some states.

• A full basement is more profitable when selling a home in certain areas.

Foundation Vents

Problem: What can you tell me about foundation vents? For example, when should they be open or closed?

Solution:

• Foundation vents can come with manual or automatic open-close vents.

• Foundation vents must be placed at least 12" above your soil.

• Sun, heat, and cold dictates how open or how closed your vents need to be, in order to prevent problems such as damp dry root.

Keeping Water from the Foundation

Problem: How can I keep water from seeping into the foundation of my home?

Solution:

• J-caps in siding are suppose to catch water, when it doesn't it backs the water up inside siding causing a leak.

• Check the pipes behind the wall to see if it's catching the leaks.

• The final step for checking to see if water is being kept away from your foundation is removing a small piece of drywall to check to see if water is behind it.

Spiders in the Storage Garage

Problem: I have spiders in my storage garage. What can I do to get rid of them?

Solution:

• Place pet foods and other food items in an air tight plastic container (figure D).

• Get rid of all cardboard boxes.

• You can purchase a bug vacuum (figure E) that disposes of bugs.

• An electric device that plugs in a let's out a silent sound to humans but very strong to pests like mice, can also be good for preventing critters from coming into your home.

Figure D

Figure E

RESOURCES :

Big Book of Home How-To
Better Homes & Gardens
0696217287
(October, 2003)
To order this title from Amazon, click here.
Meredith Publishing

Pella Corp.
Customer Services Dept.
102 Main St.
Pella, Iowa 50219
Website: www.pella.com

Hylite Pre-formed Block Windows
101 California Ave.
Beaumont, CA 92223
Toll-free: 800-827-3691
E-mail: productinfo@hy-lite.com
Website: www.hy-lite.com

Smart Vent Automatic Foundation Vent
Smart Vent Inc.
20 Warrick Ave.
Glassboro, NJ 08028
Phone: 877-441-8368
Website: www.smartvent.com

Oreck Corporation Bug Vacuum
Oreck Corp.
100 Plantation Rd.
New Orleans, LA 70123
Toll-free: 800-289-5888
Website: www.oreck.com

GUESTS :

David Koester
Weather Shield Windows & Door
One Weather Shield Plaza
Medford, WI 54451
Phone: 800-222-2995
Website: www.weathershield.com