When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and 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 straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting 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) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. window repairs can be made to 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. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim 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 tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on 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, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass, with the muntins being that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.