Why We Our Love For Repairing Window (And You Should, Too!)

Tips For Repairing Window

Many windows require repair to ensure that they can open and shut correctly. If the seal is cracked and is causing your energy bills to rise or your house to feel drafty, repairing your window can save you money in the long in the long run.

You can fix hinges that are stiff by using a ratchet loosen the operator's cover or a bit of oil. DIYers can also fix cracks in glass.

Cracked or broken glass

It's crucial to fix the problem as quickly as possible if the window repair is damaged or has broken glass. If you don't address the crack, it could become worse and create airflow issues in your home. If you're not confident in working on the fix by yourself, a professional can help.

Depending on the degree of the crack, there are several different ways to repair it. The simplest option is to cover the crack with clear tape. This will protect your family from being cut by glass shards, while still allowing air and sunlight to flow through. If you'd like taking it further, you could make use of epoxy. This method is more labor intensive, but can result in the most attractive end product.

First, you'll need to clean around the crack. Dip a cotton rag in a solution of water and soap, then gently clean the cracked area. After the window is dry and the epoxy has set, apply it according to the instructions on the packaging. When the epoxy has cured it is possible to use a putty knife to scrape off any excess and sand the surface to smooth it.

The most popular type is the stress crack. They usually begin near the edges of the glass, and then spread through the pane. These are usually caused by temperature changes within 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 work together as one unit. This is different from regular windows, which are replaced with a new window frame.

To replace the glass pane in a double-paned window you'll need to remove the glazing points or clips that hold the window in position. Keep track of the pieces you need to replace damaged glass panes. You'll need to scrape old putty away and then apply the new pane for different kinds of windows.

Stained Glass

The tiny pieces of glass used to create stained glass windows are fragile and brittle. The rough treatment, the impact of hard objects or a sudden change in temperature can cause cracks and break the glass.

Even if a piece glass is damaged it can be repaired and saved the expense of removing and replacing the panel. Stained glass experts can employ various techniques to repair the damage such as re-leading or re-foiling, painting or platina and then adding new glass.

It can be challenging and long-lasting to replace or repair broken stained glass. It is essential to employ a professional with experience who is knowledgeable of the different repair techniques that are available and will choose the best one for the specific project. Each repair technique has different reversibility, strength, and visual effects. This is why each must be assessed individually.

Re-leading is a popular method of repairing cracked lead glass. A skilled craftsman can cut a piece of soft ductile lead, called came, to size and then gently bend it back to fit the crack. After the piece is bent it can be soldered in place and cement is used to hold it in place. After the new cement has cured the crack can be cleaned, polished and sealed.

Another method to repair damaged leaded glass is by finding the crack and replacing the glass. This is a labor-intensive and expensive procedure, but it can be efficient. The cracked glass is first removed from the surface, cleaned, and then sanded to smooth the surface. The old lead is removed using a lead knife, or pincers. Any mold or oxidation could be cleaned away with the lead knife. After the old lead is removed, the sanded glass surface is cleaned and the new lead is then soldered into the existing lead.

Reinforcing bars can be incorporated to the window to repair stained glass that has become sagging. This is a less costly option. They are rebar-like support structures that run along the interior part of the lead and connect to the frame to prevent it from sliding. The bars are usually hidden behind decorative foiling, making them unnoticeable.

Muntins and Mullions

People who are familiar with windows might be familiar with the term "muntin." These vertical wood strips are used to separate window panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Typically, they're used in homes with historic architecture to maintain an authentic look and are often required by city ordinances when building or renovating in a historical district. However, many modern replacement windows utilize muntins for aesthetic purposes only rather than to add strength and stability to the sash. Nevertheless, muntins can still get damaged and if they are broken or rotting, it is possible to replace them with new ones.

The majority of window manufacturers today don't make the distinction between mullions and muntins because they both serve the same purpose. These terms are usually interchangeable however if you're replacing your windows it is crucial to know the distinctions so that you and your contractor can talk about the specifics of the project.

A mullion is a horizontal support that holds multiple panes of glass tempered together. This was an essential feature prior to the advent of glass manufacturing technology because larger pieces were nearly impossible to manufacture. The frames of today's windows are made of two glass pieces that are joined together. However, certain older kinds of windows have mullions in place to support the frame and are commonly used for aesthetic reasons.

If your mullions have signs of age they can be easily repaired them by applying a drop or two of silicone on both sides of the muntin. Then press it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal muntin, you may have to use a coping saw to cut away the old one and then shape the end by using a file so that it fits into the mortise of the new horizontal muntin. If you wish to blend in, purchase another muntin that is slightly different from the original.

Certain IGUs include real muntins and mullions which are built into the unit for use only. If you experience issues with these elements, it is likely time to replace your window.

Frame

You don't want ruining the appearance of your frame by painting it however if you need to touch it up, use a sanding sponge with a fine grit to remove any paint or stains. Use a dry rag to clean it again. Pay special attention to the corners of the mitered joints. If these have popped open a little, try to close them gently and apply wood glue to keep them together again. You can also use vinegar to dissolve the old glue in these areas, but you might need to test it on one or two corners before putting it all over.

If the loose corners are a problem you should disassemble the entire frame to access them, and then follow the steps 3-8 to resolve the issue. If the separation is small and only on one side, it could be possible to open the joint a little by wriggling.

If the corners have shattered completely apart, you'll require needle-nose pliers or a flat surface a small clamp, and wood glue. If only the top and bottom corners are damaged, you can hammer finishing nail (these are thin nails with similar dimensions to a head) into the corner to keep it in place after the glue has dried. Be careful not to place the nails too near the corner, or you may weaken the frame. You can also reinforce the corner with carpenter's glue and a hammer, or wood putty.