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 goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard 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 in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
window repair of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. 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 (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Take off 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 part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues 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.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.