DIY Network

Windows and Water Damage From "Talk2DIY Home Improvement" episode TTD-433F

In this installment of Talk2DIY: Home Improvement hosts Brad Staggs and Lynda Lyday answer viewers' questions on windows and water damage.

Brad and Lynda get right into the questions --

Drafty Windows

Problem: What can you do to keep windows from being drafty?

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Figure A

Solution:

• Weather stripping can be an easy solution to the problem.

• Pull off the back of newly purchased weather stripping and place it at the top of the window.

• If air comes from the bottom as well, you can purchase double compressed weather stripping and place them on the bottom (figure A).

• Take the double-stick tape and plastic from the window insulation kit, and on the outside of the casing apply double-stick tape and plastic on the window and seal down all around the window.

• Lastly, blow a hot blow dryer against the window where the plastic is in order to smooth out the wrinkles and trim the edges of the plastic.

Dirty Windows

Problem: What is the best way to clean dirty windows?

Solution:

• Try commercial cleaners first.

• You can use a homemade mix of baking soda and vinegar. Dap a little on a sponge and apply to the water stains on the window.

• Lime Away sulfamic acid may work. Wear gloves when applying and tape around the window framing in order to keep paint from peeling.

Replacement Window Choices

Problem: We want to replace our windows and want to know what you suggest.

Solution:

• Vinyl windows are very strong and pliable.

• Aluminum reinforced windows will allow cold to transfer back and forth.

Which is First -- Windows or Siding?

Problem: When remodeling, what goes in first -- is it the windows or the siding?

Solution:

• Find out what the window installer's structure is for window replacement first.

• If the siding is being placed in first, remove the sheathing and flanging and take the window out, and then install the new siding.

• The windows will need to be in before putting new siding up because the siding would have to be removed later to accommodate the insertion of a window.

Figure B

Changing Vinyl Window Color

Problem: Any suggestions on painting vinyl windows a different color?

Solution:

• Clean the surface very well with degreaser and use an automotive primer or a bonding agent.

  
  

• Be sure you have paint that will work well in outside conditions.

  
  

• Spray the glass of the window with water and place newspaper down in order to protect it from paint.

  
  

• Scrape paint around the glass when done (figure B).

Water Infiltration in Window

Problem: My windowsills are cracking and peeling from water damage. How can I fix the problem?

Solution:

• The first thing you need to do is find out where the water is coming from.

  
  

• To get the paint off around the windowsill use a paint remover and a paint stripper.

  
  

• Apply drywall mud and a primer that has mildew or stain blocker.

  
  

• Repaint it with mildew barrier paint.

Water Stained Ceiling

Problem: We have a crack in our ceiling and now have a stain on the ceiling. How can we repair it?

Solution:

• Repair crack by removing tape and take metal putty knife and scrape crack and remove tape.

  
  

• Next place new mesh tape and joint compound on crack.

  
  

• To keep texture take brush and rub in a smearing motion.

  
  

• Spray ceiling with primer and paint to cover up sealer.

  
  

• Next paint ceiling with ceiling paint with a wide roll-on paint roller.

Figure C

Repairing a Water Damaged Wall

Problem: Can you please tell me how to repair a wall that has been damaged by water.