When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a broken window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. 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 extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, curve that extends 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 a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix 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 method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away with time and allow water to get into the home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it 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 held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked, 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 you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If window repair 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 re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.