When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The 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 could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It 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 nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to 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 all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right 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 have a full pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. double glazing repair High Wycombe are much easier 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 is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to 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 located.
After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.