If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.
It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since window repairs of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any problems or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.
