When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather do 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 in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.
Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling window repair Macclesfield is another indicator of water affecting 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 known in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for problems or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.