What To Do To Determine If You're Ready To Go After Repair Window
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type 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 grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make 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 may be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold 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 even worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can 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 components.
Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality 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, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed 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. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements as well.