Many windows require repairs to ensure that they can open and shut correctly. If the seal is cracked and is causing your energy bills to rise or your house to feel drafty, fixing your window can save money in the long term.
It is possible to fix hinges that are stiff by using a ratchet loosen the operator's cover or a little oil. DIYers can also repair damaged glass.
Broken or cracked glass
If your window is broken or cracked glass, it's crucial to take care of the issue as soon as you can. The crack may get worse if left untreated, and could cause airflow problems in your home. A professional can assist you if you're not confident in your ability to repair the crack by yourself.
Depending on the severity of your window There are many ways to fix it. The easiest option is to cover the crack with clear tape. This will shield your family from being damaged by glass shards but still allowing air and sunlight to pass through. You can go a step further and use epoxy. This is more labor intensive, but it can yield the most attractive end product.
You'll first want to clean the crack. window repair with water, then dip a cotton rag into it. Next, you need to carefully clean the crack to remove dirt or debris. When the window is dry, apply the epoxy according to the instructions on the package. When the epoxy has hardened then use a putty knife to remove any excess, and sand it to smooth the surface.
Stress cracks are the most frequent type of crack in a window glass at home. They usually begin at the edge of your window glass and then spread across the entire pane. These are typically caused by temperature fluctuations within your home and they can become worse over time.
Double-pane windows have to replace the entire unit if one pane breaks. They are composed of two pieces that work together as one unit. This is not the same as regular windows which can be replaced by a new frame.
To replace the glass pane on double-paned windows you'll need to remove the glazing clips or points that hold the window in position. If you're replacing a broken pane, make sure you keep track of these pieces to be able to replace them in the future. For other types of windows you'll need to scrape off the old glue and reapply it with the new one.
Stained Glass
The delicate little pieces of glass that comprise stained glass windows are brittle and fragile. A rough treatment, a collision with hard objects or a sudden change in temperature could cause cracks and break the glass.
The good news is that even when the glass piece is damaged, it could be repairable and kept from the costly expense of replacing the panel and removal. Experts in stained glass can repair the damage with various methods that include refoiling, releading or soldering. They can also paint or patina the glass or add new glass.
Repairing or replacing damaged stained glass can be challenging and time-consuming. It is crucial to work with a professional with experience who is knowledgeable of the various repair techniques that are available and will pick the best one for the specific project. Reversibility, strength, and visual impact of each repair method will differ, so each one must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Re-leading is a common method of repairing cracked lead glass. A skilled artisan will carefully bend the soft ductile lead, known as came back into a shape to match the crack. After the piece is bent, it is soldered into place, and then cement is used to keep it in place. Once the new cement is dry the crack can be polished, cleaned and sealed.
Another way to fix damaged leaded glass is by noting the crack, and then re-leading the piece of glass. This is a costly and labor-intensive process, but can be efficient. The cracked glass is first removed then cleaned and sanded to smooth the surface. Then a lead knife or pincers are used to cut off the lead and wash away any oxidation or mold growth. After the old lead has been removed the sanded glass surface is cleaned and the new lead is soldered into place.
An alternative that is less expensive for repairing sagging stained glass is to include reinforcing bars to the window. These are rebar-like supports that are positioned across the inside of the lead, and connect to the frame to help stop the glass from sliding. The bars are usually hidden behind foils with decorative designs, making them invisible.
Muntins and Mullions
The term "muntin" is a common term used by people who are familiar with windows. These vertical wood strips are used to separate the panes of the traditional multi-paned windows. They are commonly used to create an authentic look in historic homes and are often required by city ordinances for renovations or construction in historic districts. However, most modern replacement windows use muntins for aesthetic purposes only rather than to add strength and stability to the sash. Muntins can still be susceptible to deterioration and should be replaced if they get rotten or broken.
Many window companies today don't even make the distinction between muntins and mullions since both are used for the same purpose. These terms are often interchangeable however if you're replacing your windows, it's essential to understand the distinctions so that you and your contractor can talk about the specifics of the project.
A mullion is a horizontal support that holds several panes of tempered glass. This was an essential feature prior to the invention of glass manufacturing technology because larger pieces were nearly impossible to produce. The frames of today's windows are made from two glass units that are glued together. Mullions are often used in older windows to support the frame and are often used for aesthetic reasons.
If your mullions show signs of aging, you can easily repair them by applying a tiny bead of silicone on both sides of the muntin and then pressing it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal muntin you may need to employ a coping saw to remove the old piece and then spruce up the end with a file to fit into the mortise of another horizontal muntin. If you want to blend in, buy another muntin that is slightly different from the original.
Certain IGUs contain both muntins (real mullions) and muntins (replicas) that are built in the unit only to provide effect. If you are experiencing problems with these elements, then it's probably time to replace your window.
Frame
If you have to sand the frame, you can use the sanding pad using a fine grit. This will remove any stains or paint. Clean it again, using a dry cloth, paying particular attention to the corners of the mitered joints. Use wood glue to re-glue the joints if they have opened up. You can also make use of vinegar to dissolve glue in these areas, however you may need to test it on one or two corners before applying it all over.
If the loose corners are a problem it is possible to disassemble the entire frame to access them, and then follow the steps 3 to 8 to address the issue. However, if the gap isn't too significant and is only on one side, you might be able to wiggle the joint slightly without disassembling it.
If the corners are completely broken you'll need a small clamp, wood glue and needle-nosed pliers. If only the bottom and top corners 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 keep it in place after the glue has dried. It is important not to place the nails too close to the corner, or you could weaken it. You can also strengthen the corner with carpenter's adhesive and the hammer, or wood putty.
