When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
An impact crack is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower 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 usually begin near the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. window repair near me occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication 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 referred to in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must seek help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.
After you've removed your sash, it's important to make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.