When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In window repair , caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water leak into the house.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.
After you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.