Write About Everything

When It’s Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn’t matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it’s recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It 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 glass If you’re willing to go further than nail varnish and 257634 tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit 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 be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It’s best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Don’t put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. You’ll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If you have double-paned windows You’ll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They’re mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you’ve cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter’s tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it’s best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They’re not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They’re much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it’s time to seek some help. A sash that is broken not addressed, 257634 can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you’ve got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. First, you’ll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You’ll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

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 can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You’ll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.