Some windows will require repairs to ensure they open and close correctly. Repairing your window can save you money in the event that the seal is damaged, which causes your energy bills to increase, or your home to feel chilly.
It is possible to fix hinges that are stiff with a ratchet that will loosen the cover of the operator or by applying a small amount of oil. Repairing a damaged window is also attainable for a DIYer.
Cracked or Broken Glass
If your window is cracked or broken glass, you must address the problem as soon as possible. If you don't address the crack, it may become worse and create airflow issues in your house. A professional can help you if you're not confident in your ability to fix the crack yourself.
There are many ways to fix your window, based on the severity. The most straightforward option is to use clear tape to cover the crack. This will protect your family members from being smashed by glass shards but still allow air and sunlight to flow through the room. You can go a step further by using epoxy. This is more labor intensive however, it can produce the most attractive end product.
You'll first want to clean around the crack. Dip a cotton rag into a solution of water and soap and gently scrub the crack. After the window has dried then apply the epoxy according to the instructions on the package. After the epoxy has set then use a putty knife to remove any excess, and smooth the surface.
The most popular type is the stress crack. The cracks typically begin at the edges of the glass and spread throughout the pane. These are typically caused by temperature changes in your home, and can worsen over time.
For double-pane windows, you'll have to replace the entire unit if one pane breaks. The windows are constructed of two parts that function as a unit. This is different from normal windows, which are replaced by a new window frame.
To replace a glass pane in your double-pane window, you'll have to remove the glazing clips or points that secure the window. If window repairs replacing a damaged pane, ensure you keep track of these pieces to be able to replace them in the future. You'll have to scrape the old putty off and then apply the new pane for other types of windows.
Stained Glass
The tiny pieces of glass that make up stained glass windows are hard and fragile. Glass can crack and broken through rough treatment, hitting with hard objects or an abrupt temperature change.
Even if a bit of glass is broken it can be repaired and saved the expense of taking and replacing the panel. Experts in stained glass can repair the damage using a variety of techniques that include refoiling, releading or soldering. They can also paint or patina or add new glass.
Replacing or repairing cracked stained glass can be difficult and time consuming. It is essential to employ a skilled professional who understands the various repair methods that are available and will select the most appropriate one for your specific task. Each repair technique has distinct strengths, reversibility, and visual effects. This is why each should be assessed separately.
Re-leading is a popular method to repair cracked leaded glass. A skilled artisan will carefully bend a piece of soft ductile led, called came back into shape to fit the crack. Once the piece is bent it can be put in place with solder and cement is used to secure it. After the new cement is dry, the crack can be polished, cleaned and sealed.
A second way to repair broken leaded glass is noting the crack, and then replacing the glass. This is a costly and labor-intensive process, but can be efficient. First, the broken piece of glass is removed and cleaned before being sanded to smooth the surface. Then pincers or a lead knife are used to remove the old lead and clean away any oxidation or mold growth. After the old lead has been removed the glass surface that has been sanded cleaned and the new lead is welded into the existing lead.
Reinforcing bars are a good addition to the window to repair stained glass that has become sagging. This is a less costly option. These are rebar-like supports that are placed along the inside part of the lead and connect to frame to prevent sagging. The bars are often able to be hidden behind the decorative foiling making them unnoticeable.
Muntins or Mullions
The term "muntin" is familiar to those who are familiar with windows. These vertical wood strips separate the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. They are commonly used to create an authentic look in historic homes and are often required as part of city regulations for renovations or construction in historical districts. Modern replacement windows typically use muntins to enhance the aesthetics of the window rather than for strength and stability. However, they can become damaged and if they're broken or rotting, it's possible to replace them with fresh pieces.
Most window companies today don't distinguish between mullions and muntins as both serve the same purpose. They are frequently interchangeable, but if you are replacing your windows, it's important to understand the differences so that you and your contractor can discuss the specifics of the work.
A mullion is the single vertical prop that holds the glass panes together in a multi-pane composition. This was an essential feature prior to the introduction of glass manufacturing technology since larger pieces were nearly impossible to produce. The frames of modern windows are constructed from two glass units that are glued together. Mullions are utilized in older windows to give support, and they're also often used for aesthetic purposes.
If your mullions are showing signs of age, you can easily fix them by applying a bead or two of silicone on both sides of the muntin. Then, press it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal piece you might need to use a copingsaw remove the old muntin and then make the ends of the new one using the aid of a file. If you'd like to blend in, purchase another muntin that is slightly different from the original.
Certain IGUs include muntins (real mullions) and muntins (replicas) which are made inside the unit for effect. If you have a problem with these components, it is likely time to replace your window.
Frame
You don't want to ruin the appearance of your frame by painting it however, if you do have to touch it up you can use a sanding sponge with a fine grit to get rid of any old paint and stains. Clean it up with a dry cloth, paying particular attention to the corners of the mitered joints. Use wood glue to re-glue them in the event that they've opened. You can also make use of vinegar to dissolve the old glue in these areas, but you might need to test it on one or two corners before putting it all over.
If the corners are loose and a problem you should disassemble the whole frame to reach them and then follow the steps 3 to 8 to address the issue. If the separation is slightly on one side, it may be possible to open the joint a little by wriggling.
If the corners are utterly broken, you will need a small clamp, wood glue, and needle-nosed pliers. If only the top and bottom corners have broken away, you can often hit finishing nails (those are thin nails that are similar in size to the head) into the corner of the frame, to ensure that it stays in place when the glue is dry. Be careful not to place the nails too near the corner, or you could weaken it. You can reinforce the corner with carpenter's glue and wood putty or a hammer.
