When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A more serious, but possible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
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 do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can 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 contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine window repair near me between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia 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 using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should call for help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.