When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY 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 at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair . In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away 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 only utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct places on the new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.