Why Repair Window Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its 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. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking window repair near me are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water enter the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're 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 of them, creating an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must contact a professional. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed your sash, it's important to be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.