When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, 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 that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting 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 seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the present one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should call for help. If window repairs near me 's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. 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 are located.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct places on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.