I need a way to stop my window from leaking?

1 Answer

Answer :

We’re having the same problem here in Pittsburgh. I’m not sure there’s anything you can do at the moment. But make sure you check the basement below the window that’s leaking, you may have more leaks there. Here’s what’s happening here: 1 There’s an ice dam on the roof, this is where snow melts on the roof, runs down to the gutter, and then re-freezes in the gutter making the gutters ineffective at removing water. You probably have icicles hanging off your gutters? If you do, you have an ice dam there. 2 The ice dam is holding water back on the roof. Roof systems are designed to stop water that’s running down them from leaking, but most are not really designed to stop pooled water from eventually leaking through 3 In our case, we have gutters that are integrated into the eaves of the roof (quite fashionable in 1920), and in at least two places, we have water leaking through the gutter into the wall and into the house that way. The solutions to these problems are: 1) Install roof heaters to melt the ice dams before the form (these are those zig-zag wires running just above gutters you see on some people’s houses), and/or insulate the roof better (keeps the roof surface cold and the snow doesn’t melt when it would refreeze in the gutter) 2) Install membrane roofing (which would prevent water sitting on the roof from seeping in)—this is pretty expensive and not really practical, but it would solve a problem. 3) Fix the gutters. We’re having a roofer come out as soon as the snow is gone, but there’s nothing you can do right now to fix the problem, other than sop up the water.

Related questions

Description : What's the best way to repair a window screen?

Last Answer : duct tape

Description : Plastic sheets for window insulation: any comments and experience to share?

Last Answer : answer:I find them unsightly. The type that you install inside with double-sided tape and heat to draw tight are the best as far as insulation and view. I don’t recall removing them, sorry. Are you unable to buy replacement windows or storm windows?

Description : Any one know of a vinyl wrap for wood window sills?

Last Answer : You want to cover them with aluminum. This is what you cover external wooden windows, external door frames. You get a box of aluminum= which is a 3 foot wide cool I think. There is different colors but ... me and I can still how to instal the pieces, the cuts and snipps you will need. Good lucck!

Description : Can you install an airconditioner window unit vertically?

Last Answer : answer:No part of the air conditioner should require gravity-down, but it's likely that the drain won't work quite right if you turn it sideways. I'd find a nice local a/c shop or small hardware store and ask them about it. I will admit, however, I've never seen one installed that way.

Description : How do I stop stains from seeping through paint primer?

Last Answer : Not sure, but I think Kilz (yes, that’s the product name) might work.

Description : Anyone here have experience with purchasing a central air system for their house? If so, I need some advice about getting quotes, etc.

Last Answer : I have a two story house (in North Carolina), each floor has it's own A/C system, the main floor has ducting underneath the floor and the second floor has ducting over the ceiling, the upstairs connects ... and shut off sooner and less air is cleaned by filters. You can have too much A/C tonnage!

Description : What tools will I need to clean up a sump pump mess?

Last Answer : This sounds like a HazMat scene. You may need to get a professional mold removal job done. The mask is a good idea BUT need to have the mask fitted and thoroughly cleaned after every use. You ... totally covered with mold and mildew. The studs, walls and flooring that were wet have to be replaced.

Description : I need some sound advice on how to deal with heavy mould?

Last Answer : There is still a leak somewhere. It wouldn't still be wet 5 years later without some sort of leak. I would get a plumber to stop the leak, then spray it with bleach. I wouldn't disturb the ... that the incident happened 5 years ago. The mold exclusion may not have been in place at that time.

Description : I am considering a generator for my house. What do I need to know?

Last Answer : Fuel prices.

Description : Need a new vacuum cleaner. Suggestions?

Last Answer : answer:Walmart has this awesome bissel for 40 bucks that is just as good as a 200-300 dollar one in my opinion. If you don't mind shopping at walmart. It ... . http://www.walmart.com/ip/Bissell-Powerforce-Bagless-Upright-Vacuum/11039508?sourceid=1500000000000003260370&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=11039508

Description : Need your opinion on some decorating; what do you think of these Handcarved Teak Heads?

Last Answer : Love the teak heads. They would go with the vases but not the bust. On the top shelf would be best.

Description : Need your thoughts on this ceiling fan and chandelier. Details inside?

Last Answer : It’s hard to tell with no context, but to me it would seem strange to have an industrial looking fan and a Maria-Theresa crystal chandelier occupying the same space.

Description : I need to install a new light bulb on a high ceiling. What are those things called that allow you to reach the cieling and install a lightbulb?

Last Answer : A…...ladder?

Description : I need bath remodeling suggestions.

Last Answer : I built a walk-in shower, quite large, with two showerheads and a fitted marble bench, but I’m sorry I no longer have the cost of materials. However I can tell you it was very pleasant and comfortable, and great for showers with a friend!

Description : I need to power wash my siding and I've never done it before - any helpful hints or dire warnings?

Last Answer : We just did this to get rid of the moss on the roof. I would rent the real thing. They are cheap and if your time has any value you will come out ahead. It is super easy. The one we had came ... pressure. Start off low and adjust it until you find a sweet spot. And just use water, no soap needed.

Description : How do you feel about the way your house is decorated?

Last Answer : It’s quite considerably minimalist. I harbour secret desires viz. an aquarium stocked with yellow, orange and blue fish set into the brick wall of the bathroom juxtaposed with the existing infinity of mirror walls.

Description : Safest way to remove latex paint?

Last Answer : What material is the substrate? The easiest thing is probably just to repaint.

Description : Can you help me figure out a way to organize my stud earrings?

Last Answer : How about getting a jewelry roll? I use one of them for my earrings and rings and works nicely. You can hide it into a drawer and the jewelry stay well organized. If you can’t afford to buy one and you are good with handcrafting, you can make one yourself, they are pretty easy to make.

Description : What is the cheapest way to accurately figure out property lines in a wooded environment?

Last Answer : answer:If 30' or so isn't close enough for you, then you probably need to have a survey. And forget about sticks with colored flags', which are good enough for builders as (very) temporary ... have a complaint, then they'll probably tell you soon, and no permanent harm will have been done.

Description : What's the cheapest way to buy cement in bulk?

Last Answer : Do you calculations and figure out how much concrete you will need and call the truck to come and pour. You wear the boots and stand in the muck and pull it all around to where you need it, but once you get to where you need more than 10 bags, I say call for the truck!

Description : What is the cheapest, simplest way to freshen up the wood on this sofa?

Last Answer : answer:First, before restaining it, you will need to sand the wood. I would clean and sand it, and then restain it (probably a dark stain to be more au courant). Failing that, you can get scratch cover to match most stain and apply it to the scratches. That should help improve the appearance.

Description : I have a nook in my new bedroom. What would be the easiest way to turn it into a desk area without buying a desk?

Last Answer : Here is a link to seven steps in turning a closet or nook into a desk area with shelving.

Description : What's the best way to paint a ceiling?

Last Answer : Can you just hire a professional and be done with it? The thought of painting ceilings, textured ceilings, makes my ass twitch. I think you could use a sprayer but you'd have to spray at an angle from more ... up. For sure wait until the roof is finished,or you'll end up with it all to do again.

Description : What's a good way to level an air conditioning pad?

Last Answer : Maybe like a small wooden board to even it out?

Description : Is there a DIY way to laminate things in my classroom?

Last Answer : answer:Indeed there is. It is not quite as good as having a laminating machine but cheap "laminating sheets" can usually be purchased at office supply stores. Here's an example: http://www.office1000.com/discount/laminating-sheets-self-adhesive.html

Description : Is there any way to find studs in a wall without a studfinder?

Last Answer : Turn down the lights and shine a flashlight across the wall from the side (my home inspector showed me this). Side-lit, you can see the drywall seam and nails - under that will be a stud.

Description : what's the best/easiest way to remove wallpaper?

Last Answer : Score and steam. http://www.practicaldiy.com/decorating/wallpaper/stripping_wallpaper.php

Description : What could cause the ceiling above the shower in my bottom floor apartment to cave in?

Last Answer : I can't tell you, but I can say that this happened to me years ago. The landlord had the second-floor unit and I was on the first floor. One night (luckily when I was not in the shower) ... course, but it sure cramped my style for a little while there. I hope you notified your landlord right away.

Description : Can I pay someone to pick up my poop (composting toilet question)?

Last Answer : I’ve heard of it being used at a commune but that was an outside toilet. It’s hard to imagine that anyone is going to come up three flights into an apartment to pick up your poop;

Description : Am I wrong in this handyman situation?

Last Answer : If he has problems with dust, he should wear a respirator. It is one thing to extend the time table to accomodate him taking days off to recuperate, but a whole other thing to hand off the job to ... you do not even get the quality you paid for. He should at least be there to supervise their work.

Description : What are your tips for living in a small apartment?

Last Answer : Look for the closest laundromat/groceries stores. Stock up on change for the laundry. Explore the neighborhood. Maybe get a Murphy bed.

Description : Removing broken garden lights?

Last Answer : Are the wires in conduit or just in the ground? When I worked in industrial construction, if you removed a piece of equipment you were required to remove electrical connections, water, steam and inert gases.

Description : Should I go with a 24" or 30" oven/microwave in my kitchen remodel?

Last Answer : (39 year old woman here) I would seriously consider not buying a home with a 24 oven. It might be a deal-breaker. I don't consider myself one of those people who needs every convenience or who would ... of time for you, though. I think you should do what you like and are comfortable with for now.

Description : Is it advisable to prime walls before painting even though they have a previously applied covering of paint?

Last Answer : No, just wipe them down to clean them. The primary function of primer is to seal the drywall or wood so it won't absorb the more expensive paint. Priming an already painted surface only helps if the ... is very dark, and you're painting it a much lighter color, as it starts to lighten it up.

Description : How often do you repaint interior walls if they are not obviously discolored?

Last Answer : I don’t until they obviously need it. Ugh.

Description : How often do you repaint rooms in your house?

Last Answer : I have painted my bedroom 3 times since I've lived here, since 2003. I like to change my decor every few years. The living room has been painted 3 times also. One of the bedrooms got painted immediately ... watch too much HGTV. I also live alone, so my walls don't get dinged by kids or husbands.

Description : Looking for an attorney to draw up contracts with contractors, architects, and interior designers. Where do I start looking?

Last Answer : Oops… sorry. I thought this was spam. That wasn’t a real answer. I did up a big house that was built the turn of the century and almost left untouched. I hired a general contractor and he and his wife had it all on their shoulders.

Description : What's with the surveys? (Read details.)

Last Answer : Edit: “As if life weren’t aggravating enough.”

Description : If I want to run a gas line to a kitchen, who needs to do it?

Last Answer : I got a plumber to do mine, when I already had gas into the house. Call your regular guy, he can steer you to the right party if he can’t do it himself.

Description : Should I update my country kitchen?

Last Answer : I think and have read opinions that such remodeling doesn't tend to pay off in terms of the final sale price, but that it can increase the frequency of people being interested, because of the ... the number of people bidding against each other, which might possible also affect the final sale price.)

Description : Is it possible to hang a hammock beyond its stated length?

Last Answer : It won’t be too comfortable.but it is possible.

Description : How long does oil & wax wood sealant last when applied to exotic wood?

Last Answer : Can you provide more information on the installation? Inside, outside, Sunlight exposure, etc?

Description : How can I get cold air to reach the ceiling?

Last Answer : The easiest answer is to use a fan. If you have a ceiling fan, turn it on. If not, get either a floor fan or some sort of oscillating fan. Something to stir up the air. The colder air is more ... so it will naturally fall to the lowest areas. If you mix it up, all the air will eventually cool down.

Description : How can my sister work with a stubborn neighbor to improve her own property?

Last Answer : Is his property in bad shape and maybe bringing down property value? Then they can petition the neighbors to have him do something about it. Or she can hire a lawyer that deals with property law and sue him ... of his property going up in value and having to pay taxes or he is just a donkey butt.

Description : If you could do it all over again; what would you do when moving into a new home?

Last Answer : answer:Any modifications you are going to do, if you are able to do them prior to moving in, it will ease up the confusion, mess and disruption to your life more so than if you live in the ... store it indefinitely without worry about moisture getting to it (if it's in a damp basement or shed).

Description : Is there a skill you always thought you'd like to learn, but never did?

Last Answer : Driving a car.

Description : I want to make some house improvements for my grandma. I'm afraid I can overlook some dangers/ discomforts. What are the most important changes that I can make?

Last Answer : answer:Prevent falls and tripping. Remove throw rugs and electric cords on the floor, make sure there is good lighting for night trips to bathroom. Assistance rails beside toilet and in bath tub ... Medical alert system for $35 to $70 per month would alert authorities for a medial emergency. Welcome

Description : Can I replace a 60 watt incandescent light bulb with a fluorescent or LED bulb that puts out more light than the incandescent?

Last Answer : Light output is measured in lumens, and yes, you can find a fluorescent bulb in lumen output equal to or greater than an incandescent 75 or 100 watt bulb.And it won’t be anywhere near 60 watts, so you are safe.

Description : Would a fuel economy figure for a new home be useful for potential buyers?

Last Answer : I've bought and sold a couple houses, a review of the last year's utilities was usually in the due diligence. So yes there a benefit of fuel economy for complete house. I have a two zone heating ... a friend in town that has a house almost the same size and shape, he pays 50% more for utilities.

Description : What would you recommend for a security system for an infrequently occupied house?

Last Answer : answer:The best security is to have someone in the home. That is, a trusted tenant, housesitter, mature and capable family member, etc. The house needs to be occupied or it will always be a ... lack of intensity in responding to continuing alarms.) Can you put someone in the house to live there?