How to repair an octagon window trim?
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Hi guys! I have one of those old octagonal windows with no frame, just metal trim on the inside and vinyl on the exterior. I have discovered a pretty decent leak between the panes. I'm wondering if anyone has any experience with removal and replacement of of these things before I start ripping into it. I would like to keep it the way it is as the discovery only happened as I was prepping to turn it into faux stained glass. A new one is way out of budget. Help?Thanks!Star
Not sure, but I would look at the caulking seal around the the metal trim. Maybe try a straight edge razor and carefully cut it away and replace it with CLEAR waterproof caulking. To get a smooth edge or a clean edge next to the caulk, I have used. Apiece of ice or an ice cube, and it makes it a real nice pretty clean look. Good luck!
Is it double pane glass? Where is the leak?
There is a way to clean the fogging, but it can be a tough DIY project. https://condensation2clear.com/blogs/news/81269124-diy-hack-how-to-repair-foggy-windows-yourself
If your plan is to give it a stained glass look, why not just ignore the leak and go ahead with your art.
If you think you are going to have to replace the trim, here's my advice. As carefully as possible, remove the existing. If any pieces splinter or break off, put it back together. Use it as a template for the replacement pieces. You will save yourself quite a bit of headache and $$.
After removing the existing trim, caulk everywhere and put new trim up.
Remove the window screws and frame. Find the source of the leak on the outside.
Silicone or patch depending on the problem. Put the glass back after you have sealed and dried the interior. Use a bead of clear silicone on both pieces of glass before you put back together. Leave the interior glass out for a day if necessary to dry the gap between the two windows.
I cannot find any leaks on the outside...as I mentioned in the post, the trim outside is vinyl/hard plastic and I discovered it goes up underneath the siding quite a bit. I'm really not sure if it's just condensation that got trapped or if the leak is IN the wall somewhere. After some investigation this weekend, the window will have to be completely replaced, frame and all. 😖Thanks everyone!