When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. 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 temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating properly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair 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 a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. window repair near me can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.
It's best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth 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, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
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 all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, as well.