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When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. First, you should put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed 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.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator 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 glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal 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 first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you have an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In window and door repair near me these cases it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.