When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important 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 your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A more serious but possible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low 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 tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling 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 held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If window repair 've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.