10 Healthy Repair Window Habits
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair . Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.
Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator 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 traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks 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 a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.
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 insert the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions 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 to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.