When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and let water get into the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
First take a rag and 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 to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you should contact a professional. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.
window repairs near me that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.