Many windows require repairs to ensure that they can open and shut correctly. Repairing your window can save you money when the seal is damaged and can cause your energy bills to rise or your home to feel drafty.
Stiff hinges are often repaired with a bit of oil or by using a ratchet tool to loosen the cover of the operator. Repairing window repair damaged window is also attainable for the DIYer.
Cracked or Broken Glass
If your window is broken or cracked glass, you must address the problem as soon as you can. If you don't address the crack, it could become worse and cause airflow issues in your house. A professional can help you if you're not sure of your ability to fix the crack by yourself.
Depending on the degree of the crack, there are several different methods to repair it. The most effective option is to cover the crack with clear tape. This will protect your family from being damaged by glass shards but still allowing sunlight and air to pass through. If you'd like taking it a step further, you can make use of epoxy. This method is more labor intensive but can result in the most attractive end product.
In the beginning, you'll need to clean the area around the crack. Dip a cotton rag in a mixture of soap and water and then gently scrub the area that has cracked. When the window is dry, apply the epoxy according to package instructions. After the epoxy has set using a putty blade, use it to remove any excess and smooth the surface.
The most popular type is the stress crack. The cracks typically begin at the edge of your window and then spread across the entire pane. They're usually the result of temperature fluctuations in your home, and can get worse over time.
For double-pane windows, you'll need to replace the entire window if one pane breaks. The windows are constructed of two pieces that function as a unit. This is different from regular windows, which can be replaced with a brand new window frame.
To replace the glass pane on a double-paned window it is necessary to remove the glazing clips or points that hold the window in place. Keep your list of the parts you need to replace damaged glass panes. You'll need to scrape the old putty off and then reapply the new pane for different kinds of windows.
Stained Glass
The tiny pieces of glass used to create stained glass windows are brittle and fragile. Glass can be cracked and broken by rough treatment, hitting with hard objects or a sudden temperature change.
The positive side is that even in the event that the glass is broken, it may be repairable and can be free from the expense of replacement and removal of the panel. Experts in stained glass can fix the damage by employing various methods that include refoiling, releading or soldering. They can also paint or patina or add new glass.
It can be a challenge and time-consuming to replace or repair damaged stained glass. It is crucial to work with a professional with experience who is knowledgeable of the various repair techniques that are available and can pick the best one for the specific project. Reversibility, strength, and visual effect of each repair method will differ, so each one should be assessed on a case by case basis.
Re-leading is a popular method of repairing cracked lead glass. A skilled craftsman will bend the soft ductile led, called came, back into shape to match the crack. After the piece is bent, it is soldered into place, and then cement is used to hold it in position. After the cement has dried the crack can be cleaned, polished and sealed.
Another way to repair cracks in glass leaded is to spot cracks, and then re-lead the piece of glass. This is a labor-intensive and expensive process, but can be efficient. The damaged glass is removed, cleaned, and sanded to smooth out the surface. The lead that was removed is removed using a lead knife, or pincers. Any mold or oxidation can be removed using the lead knife. After the lead is removed, the glass surface that was sanded is cleaned and the new lead is soldered into the existing lead.
Reinforcing bars can be added to the window to fix stained glass that has become sagging. This is a less costly option. These are rebar like supports that run across the interior side of the lead and connect to the frame in order to stop the glass from sliding. The bars are often able to be hidden behind the foiling with decorative designs making them unnoticeable.
Muntins and Mullions
Those who know something about windows may have heard of the term "muntin." These vertical wood strips are used to separate window panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Typically, they're used in homes with historic architecture to preserve their authentic appearance and are often required by city ordinances when constructing or renovating in a historical district. Many modern replacement windows only make use of muntins to improve the aesthetics of the window rather than to ensure the strength and stability. Muntins are still susceptible to deterioration and should be replaced if they get rotten or broken.
Many window companies today do not distinguish between muntins or mullions since they serve the same purpose. They are frequently used interchangeably. However, should you be replacing your windows, it's essential to know the difference between them so you and your contractor are on the same page when discussing the details of your project.
A mullion is the only vertical prop that holds panes of glass together in a multi-pane composition. It was required prior to the development of glass manufacturing technology, as larger pieces were nearly impossible to produce. Nowadays, windows do not require mullions because the frames are constructed of two glass units that are glued to each other. Mullions are used in some older windows to provide support and are often employed for aesthetic reasons.
If your mullions show signs of aging they can be easily repaired them by applying a small bead of silicone to both sides of the muntin, and then pressing it back into the frame. If you are replacing a horizontal piece, you may need to use a copingsaw remove the old muntin, and then make the ends of the new one using the help of a file. If not, you can simply buy a new muntin that's slightly different than the original to be perfectly matched.
Certain IGUs include real muntins and mullions which are integrated into the unit for effect only. If you have a problem with these elements, it is likely time to replace your window.
Frame
You don't want ruining the appearance of your frame by painting it, but if you do have to touch it up you can use a sanding sponge with the fine grits to get rid of any stains and paint. Clean it with a dry cloth, paying special attention to the corners of the mitered joints. Use wood glue to re-glue them if they've opened. You can also use vinegar to dissolve old glue in these areas, but you may need to test it on one or two corners before applying it all over.
If the corners are loose and a problem, you can often disassemble the whole frame to access them and then follow the steps 3 through 8 to solve the issue. If the separation is slightly on one side, it could be possible to make the joint more open by wriggling.
If the corners have completely fallen apart, you'll need needle-nose pliers, a flat surface, a small clamp, and wood glue. If only the corners at the top and bottom are damaged you can hammer a finishing nails (these are nails that are thin and a similar size to a head) into the corner to help hold it firmly once the glue has dried. You should not place the nails too close to the corner, or you could weaken it. You can also reinforce the corner using carpenter's glue and an hammer or wood putty.
