When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. Reading double glazing are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth 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. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.