When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Orpington double glazing repair , while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can 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 the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water get into the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint 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 better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.
To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum 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 function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.