When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
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 your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're looking 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 prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Make sure window repairs near me have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water get into the home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances 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.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
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 leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears 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 have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.