When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops 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 more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer 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 will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If double glazing repairs Hayes are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can 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. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. 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 (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. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.
To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to 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 improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
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 in its slot and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.