When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. window repairs near me can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow 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 wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening 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 classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of 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 entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing 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 more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.