When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. window repair is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water get into the home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold 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. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.