When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. First, you should put on a pair 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 a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling double glazing repair Luton is another indicator 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 referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you have an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.