When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
If the crack is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be 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, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut 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 first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more severe 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 the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. Salford double glazing feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.