Abbey Woolley asked 4 months ago
When It’s Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn’t matter whether the cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it’s recommended to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazed window repairs-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend 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. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it’s a good idea to contact an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don’t put off leaking windows. They’re a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you’ll have to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
You’ll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they’re not blocked by debris. They’re designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they’re only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
Clean the affected areas using 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 to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical 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. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to 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 middle of the window, it’s better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you’re looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They’re much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must call for help. If it’s not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you’ve got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you’ll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn’t matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they’re not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
You’ll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It’s a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you’ll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.