When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. window repair Birmingham keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. 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 in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. 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 is still able to be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.
If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some 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. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.
First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as an authentic muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed your sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly 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 have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.