When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. Derby double glazing repairs is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing 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 make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair 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 the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water enter the home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing 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 traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements as well.