When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually 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 weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop 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 more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows 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 will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal 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 first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. window repairs near me of paint will also protect your window from the elements.