When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, you should wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. window repairs can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen 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 coming from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 decorative elements in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made 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 then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.