10 Repair Window Tricks Experts Recommend
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water get into the home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it 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. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should seek help. A damaged sash, ignored, could 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 possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. window repair near me 'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.