When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.
It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.
Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication 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 called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If double glazing repairs Camberley have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. 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.