When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. First, double glazing Mile End should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating properly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.
If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
An impact crack is the most popular type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in 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 notice a damp zone 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 a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.
Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with 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 taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.
For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, 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 most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.