When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your
upvc window repairs near me, and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it 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. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the
UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal 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. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint.