When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. double glazing repairs Waltham Cross are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a 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 windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication 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 called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an even more serious issue, such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. 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, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.