When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if 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 type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. This is a curvy, curve that extends 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.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
Examine double glazing repairs Ascot on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 known in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal 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 first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. 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, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really 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 divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.