When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, curve that extends 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.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and allow water to enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
After you've removed your sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.