10 Healthy Habits For A Healthy Repair Window
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When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent 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 it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can 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 a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only 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 a crack in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.
Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.
To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your window repairs near me windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.