When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. Bedford window repair shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at 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. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause various issues within your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.
In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If you have a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.
If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.
After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.