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 shattering.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to leak into the house.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. Luton double glazing repairs can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.