When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
An easy fix for a broken window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY 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 in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the present one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. window repairs near me are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must 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 need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.