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 of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
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 typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water get into the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you have a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to seek help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on double glazed window repairs of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.
After you've removed the sash, you must be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.