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 shield yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much 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 is 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 window glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In window repairs , a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get 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 take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.