When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.
An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
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. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, Bishops Stortford double glazing repair can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.