When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.
If the crack is becoming bigger or is large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. window repairs near me could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually an arc of curvy lines 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.
If you're looking to take further than 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 prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage 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 soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting 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 known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.