When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective 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 could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but still feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might 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 affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.
If windows have double panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
window repair near me & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip that separates the sash.
After 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 into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. This can be 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 damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.