When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate
upvc repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass
upvc repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather make 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 all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or
window Doctor rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.
After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window 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. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your
window doctor frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.