When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. window repairs are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must call for help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.