When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating properly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling 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. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are window repair of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, you must be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any visible damage, it must 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 created with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.