When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of 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 that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. window repairs near me of paint can also protect your window from the elements.