It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
Applying window repair covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. window repair occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will 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 stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need 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 with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim 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 seal off the lower section 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 an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being 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 way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.
