When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to complete breaks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. window repair can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
You'll also have to inspect 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 over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's 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 the design and size.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.