5 Repair Window Projects That Work For Any Budget
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you 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 as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. double glazing repairs Mitcham are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.