Repair Window Tips From The Best In The Business
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If window repairs near me are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence 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 panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.