When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as 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 known in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.
For window repairs can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to contact a professional. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.