When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. First, you should wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but still possible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean window repairs affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.
To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider 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 many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. 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 does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper 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 check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after 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 need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.