When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep 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 most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If double glazing repairs Finchley have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges 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 high or low 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 such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.
Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.
It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.