8 Tips To Enhance Your Repair Window Game
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
An easy fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let 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 change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.
If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid 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 quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. double glazing repair Rochester are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.
Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any 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. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.