When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick fix 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 shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result 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 feasible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd 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 in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.
It is best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling 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 traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial 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 situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, window repair near me 'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it towards 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.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.