When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and let water get into the home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must contact a professional. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues 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.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this 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 area where the sash cords are.
It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.