When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe 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 is caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In window repairs , caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses 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 a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must call for help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix 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 using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.