Repair Window Tips From The Top In The Industry
When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.
A more serious, but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes 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. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair . Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must seek help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
You'll need to check the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.