7 Essential Tips For Making The Most Of Your Repair Window
Wiki Article
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.
However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can progress to complete breaks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and glass repairs pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed 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 tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.
It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.