When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd 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 in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair . Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold 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, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away 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 bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be 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.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you should contact a professional. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.