Five Repair Window Projects To Use For Any Budget

When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges 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 the window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water enter the home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.
To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. upvc windows repair damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.