When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or a 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 keep your windows functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.
It is best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. double glazed window repairs used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening 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 a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically 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 functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.