When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. Dulwich double glazing repairs will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting 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 referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with the muntins being attached to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to 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. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.