When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As window repair passes the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully 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 recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should 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 improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.