When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to use 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 shields your windows from the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes 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 and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. window repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with 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 properly sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. 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 reside.
After you've removed your sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.