When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
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 project. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (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 fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.
It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. window repairs can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.