Repair Window: The History Of Repair Window In 10 Milestones
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Placing RepairMyWindowsAndDoors over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed 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 first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards 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 so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.