It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying window repairs caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water leak into the house.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure 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 put the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.
