10 Repair Window That Are Unexpected
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions and can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
window repair near me of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to 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 way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must 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've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.