When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Oldham double glazing repairs are the most common type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap can 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're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues 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 functioning.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.