Your Family Will Thank You For Having This Repair Window
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, glazier like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, glazier it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window doctor near me with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken 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 over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.
A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window 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 windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
It's best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're used 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 cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. 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 will also protect your window from the elements.
