When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. First, put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.
However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go 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 more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. double glazing Ilford turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication 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 traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.
To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must contact a professional. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon 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 with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.