Repair Window Tools To Facilitate Your Daily Life
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.
An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but still possible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair 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 longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed 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 contact a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the 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, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're experiencing an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If window repair near me have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed your sash, make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
You'll need to inspect 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 becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.