Repair Window Tools To Ease Your Day-To-Day Life

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window doctor is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazing-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your Window Doctor appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water enter the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening 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 rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must contact a professional. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.