When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
Applying glass window repair RepairMyWindowsAndDoors covering over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself 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 in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.
Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.