When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
An impact crack is the most frequent kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First employ Dover double glazing repairs to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal 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 take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. 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 you can to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.