The Lesser-Known Benefits Of Repair Window
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.
A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready 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 costly, but it will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop 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 you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away 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 traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If window repairs have an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
After you've removed the sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.