When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water get into the home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. window repairs near me should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.