When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that 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.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. window repairs near me is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks 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 cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the 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 classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to call for help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. 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 need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.
