When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. This is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause 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 tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once window repairs 've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas 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 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 situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should seek help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements as well.