When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a broken window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If left window repairs near me , they can also cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass 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.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling 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. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If you have an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably 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.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should seek help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.