Repair Window Tips From The Most Effective In The Business
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable 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 fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease 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 elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal 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 layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.