When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch 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.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's 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 size.
Installing window repair is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding 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 pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.