When It's Time to Repair Windows If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work. An easy fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home. Cracked Glass Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly. Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather. However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency. Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks. A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract. If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place! Leaking Windows If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house. It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage. In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer. It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris. Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to enter the home. Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes. Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components. First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat. If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one. For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are. If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to 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 worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside. click the next page is crucial to compare 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 slot and could affect the way it operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window. You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue. If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.
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