When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.
First, use window repairs near me to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint 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 a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon 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 boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.