When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.
An impact crack is the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A more serious, but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks 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 rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the present one.
Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will 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 a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If left window repair , a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is important to 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 place and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.