When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. 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 shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. window repairs near me might also find peeling paint as 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 referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with 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 operating.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.