When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking window repairs near me
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water enter the home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.