When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the home. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could 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 seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. window repair near me put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.
First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close 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 the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must contact a professional. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove 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, and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.