Repair Window Tips From The Top In The Business

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.
window repairs are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause 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 outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
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 an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.
First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.
Once you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.