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.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is 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 display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It 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 which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like 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 DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away with time and let water get into the home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of leaks. double glazing Woodley will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of 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 panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed your sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.