When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. window repair near me can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. 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 can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to seek help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, 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. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.