When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to leak into the house.
Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once double glazing repair Herne Bay 've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must contact a professional. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in all 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 does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.