When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.
An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
window repair is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care 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 those of your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.