When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. First, you should wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
St Albans double glazing repair stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign 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 glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged 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 problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.
It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.