Tips For Repairing Window Many windows require repairs to ensure that they can open and close properly. Repairing your window can save you money if the seal is broken and results in your energy costs to increase or your home to feel drafty. You can fix stiff hinges by using a ratchet to loosen the cover of the operator or by applying a small amount of oil. A DIYer can also repair a cracked glass. Broken or cracked glass If a window has broken or cracked glass, it's crucial to fix the issue as quickly as possible. The crack may get worse if it's left unattended and can cause airflow issues within your home. If you're not confident in working on the fix yourself, a professional can assist. Depending on the degree of the crack There are a variety of ways to fix it. The easiest solution is to cover the crack with clear tape. This will keep your family members from being smashed by glass shards but still allow air and sunlight to pass through the space. You can go one step further and use epoxy. This is more labor intensive, but it can yield a more attractive end product. You'll first want to clean the crack. Dip a cotton rag in a solution of soap and water and gently scrub the cracked area. Once the window is dry and the epoxy is applied, follow in accordance with the directions on the packaging. After the epoxy has set, you can employ a putty knife to scrape away any excess, and sand the surface to smooth it. Stress cracks are the most common type of crack in a window glass in a home. They typically start at the edges of the glass, and then spread across the entire pane. These are usually caused by changes in temperature in your home, and can worsen over time. For double-pane windows, you'll have to replace the entire unit if one pane breaks. The windows are constructed of two pieces that function as a unit. This is not the same as regular windows that can be replaced by an entirely new frame. To replace a pane of glass in a double-pane window you'll have to remove the glazing clips or points that hold the window in place. If you're replacing a broken pane, be sure to keep track of these pieces so that you can replace them in the future. For other kinds of windows you'll need to scrape off the old putty, and then apply it again to the new window. Stained Glass The delicate pieces of glass that comprise stained glass windows are hard and fragile. The rough treatment, the impact of hard objects or a sudden shift in temperature can crack and break the glass. The good news is that even in the event that the glass is broken, it can be repairable and saved from the high cost of replacing the panel and removal. Stained glass experts can use different methods to repair the damage, including re-leading or re-foiling, painting or platina, and adding new glass. It can be a challenge and long-lasting to replace or repair damaged stained glass. It is essential to employ a professional who knows the various methods of repair and can choose the one that works best for your project. Each repair technique has different strengths, reversibility, and visual effects. Therefore, each should be evaluated individually. Re-leading is an effective method for repairing cracked leaded glass. A skilled artisan can cut a strip of soft ductile lead called came, to size and carefully bend it back to fit the crack. After the piece is bent, it can be put in place with solder and cement is used to secure it. After the cement has dried the crack can be polished, cleaned and sealed. Another way to fix cracked leaded glass is by spotting the crack and then re-leading the piece of glass. This is a more labor intensive and costly process, however it is a viable option. First the cracked piece of glass is removed and cleaned, then sanded to smooth the surface. Then a lead knife or pincers are used to remove the lead that was previously there and clean away any oxidation or mold growth. After the lead is removed, the sanded area of the glass is cleaned and the new lead is formed to fit neatly over the damaged area and soldered in place. Reinforcing bars can be incorporated to the window in order to repair stained glass that has sagged. This is a less costly option. These are rebar-like supports that are positioned across the interior side of the lead and connect to the frame in order to prevent sagging. Sometimes, the bars can be hidden behind the foiling so that they are not visible. Muntins or Mullions Those who know something about windows may have heard of the term muntin. These vertical wood strips separate window panes in traditional multi-pane windows. They are typically employed to create a more authentic look in older homes and are sometimes required as part of city ordinances for construction or renovations in historical areas. However, most new replacement windows employ muntins for aesthetic purposes only rather than to add strength and stability to the sash. Muntins are still vulnerable to damage and may need to be replaced if damaged or decayed. The majority of window manufacturers today don't make the distinction between mullions and muntins because both serve the same purpose. They are frequently used interchangeably. However, should you be replacing your windows, you must know the difference between them so that you and your contractor are on the same level when discussing the specifics of your project. A mullion is a horizontal support that holds multiple panes of tempered glass. It was needed prior to the advent in glass manufacturing technology, as larger pieces were nearly impossible to produce. Today's windows do not necessarily require mullions as frames are made of two glass units that are glued to one another. However, older styles of windows do have mullions to provide support and they are commonly used for aesthetic reasons. If your mullions show signs of age they can be easily repaired them by applying a bead or two of silicone on both sides of the muntin. Then press it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal piece, you may need to use a copingsaw to remove the old muntin. Then, make the ends of the new one using a file. Otherwise, simply purchase another muntin that's a little different from the original and it will blend in perfectly. Certain IGUs have real muntins and mullions which are built into the unit for use only. If you are experiencing problems with these elements, then it's likely time to replace your window. Frame You don't want ruining the look of your frame by painting it however if you have to touch it up, use a sanding sponge with a fine grit to get rid of any stains and paint. Clean it again, using a dry cloth, paying particular attention to the corners of the mitered joints. If the joints have opened a little, try to close them gently, and use some wood glue to hold them in place. You can also use vinegar to dissolve the old glue in these areas, but you might have to test it on an area or two before putting it all over. If the corners aren't tight enough and pose a problem you may be able to disassemble the entire frame to examine them, and follow the steps 3 through 8 to fix it. If the separation isn't too significant and is only on one side, you might be able to pull the joint a bit without removing it. If the corners have completely come apart, you will need needle-nose pliers, a flat surface, a small clamp and wood glue. If only window repairs at the top and bottom are damaged, you can hammer finishing nail (these are thin nails with similar dimensions to a head) into the corner to help keep it in place after the glue has dried. Be cautious not to place the nails too close to the corner, or you may weaken it. You can reinforce the corner using carpenter's adhesive and wood putty or a hammer.
window repairs
