When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
window repairs is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. 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. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If windows have double panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few 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 decaying parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the present one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.