When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. window repairs will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it never had 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 project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, as well.