When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. window repairs Biggleswade can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked 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 an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will 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. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with 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 come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.