10 Unexpected Repair Window Tips
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window repairs on one or more sides. It can 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 window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away 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. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good news 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 ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat 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 second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and install size.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad 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 a total of two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.
