Find Out What Repair Window Tricks Celebs Are Using
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. First, wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.
If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
window repair near me is the most popular kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.
First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal 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 first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must contact a professional. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.
After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.