When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Putney double glazing are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and 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 feasible crack is the pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water get into the home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. 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 trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you have a more severe problem such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. 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 have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.