The History Of Repair Window In 10 Milestones
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in 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 notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering 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 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.
Often, a single or small 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 most of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. 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 that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you should contact a professional. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and is possible in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. 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. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, window repairs Billericay can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.