What Makes The Repair Window So Effective? During COVID-19

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

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. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window repair, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you find any visible damage it should be repaired as soon 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 using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.