When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must work with care. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window 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 factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small portion of them, resulting in 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. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let Kingsbury double glazing repair dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you have a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly 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 hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.