5 Repair Window Lessons From The Professionals
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
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 window repair 'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting 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 part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting 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 a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.
After you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.