5 Repair Window Lessons From The Professionals
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
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 entering the home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best 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 are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. window repairs Esher begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It 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.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
It is best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. 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 repaired as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. 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 help to protect your window from the elements, as well.