When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.
window repairs
Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. 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 cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to seek help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.