When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating correctly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to 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 all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the existing one.
For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
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 drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. 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 have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling linseed oil. After window repairs has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.