Tips For Repairing Window
Many windows require repairs to ensure that they 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 chilly.
Stiff hinges are often repaired by a small amount of oil or the ratchet tool to loosen the cover for the operator. A DIYer can also repair a cracked glass.
Broken or cracked glass
It's important to fix the issue as soon as possible when windows are cracked or has glass that is broken. The crack could worsen if it's left unattended and could cause airflow problems within your home. If you're not comfortable working on the fix yourself, a professional can assist.
Depending on the severity of your window, there are several different ways to fix it. The simplest option is to apply clear tape to the crack. This will protect your family members from being cut by shards of glass while still allowing air and sunlight to flow through the room. If you'd like to go a step further, you can employ epoxy. It's a more labor-intensive method however, it can give a more attractive finish.
First, you'll want to clean the area around the crack. Dip a cotton rag in a solution of water and soap and gently scrub the crack. After the window has dried, apply the epoxy as per the instructions on the package. When the epoxy has hardened then use a putty knife to remove any excess, and smooth the surface.
The most popular type is the stress crack. They typically begin at the edge of the glass and extend throughout the pane. They're usually the result of temperature fluctuations in your home, and they tend to get worse over time.
If a pane of a double-pane window breaks then you'll need to replace the entire unit. This is because these windows are sealed comprising two glass pieces that function as one piece. This is distinct from regular windows, which can be replaced with a new window frame.
To replace the glass pane on double-paned windows you'll need to remove the glazing clips or points that hold the window in position. Keep your list of the parts you need to replace a broken glass pane. You'll have to scrape the old putty off, and then apply the new pane for other types of windows.
Stained Glass
The delicate pieces of glass that comprise stained glass windows are hard and fragile. Rough treatment, impact with hard objects or a sudden change in temperature could cause cracks and break the glass.
Even if a piece of glass is damaged it can be repaired and saved the expense of taking and replacing the panel. Experts in stained glass repair the damage using a variety of techniques that include refoiling, releading or soldering. They can also paint or patina the glass or add new glass.
It can be difficult and time-consuming to replace or repair broken stained glass. It is important to hire an expert who is knowledgeable of the various repair techniques and is able to select the most effective one for your project. Each repair method has its own strengths, reversibility, and visual effects. Therefore, each should be assessed separately.
Re-leading is one of the most commonly used methods for repairing cracked glass. A skilled craftsman can cut a piece of soft ductile lead, called came, to the size and carefully bend it back to fit the crack. After the piece is bent it can be placed in place and then cement is used to secure it. When the cement has dried, the crack can be polished, cleaned and sealed.
Another way to fix cracked leaded glass is by finding the crack and leading the glass piece again. This is a more labor-intensive and costly process, but it can be effective. First the cracked piece of glass is removed, cleaned and sanded down to smooth the surface. Then pincers or a lead knife are used to cut off the lead that was previously there and clean away any oxidation or mold growth. After window repair has been removed the glass surface that has been sanded cleaned and the new lead is then soldered into the existing lead.
Reinforcing bars can be added to the window to repair stained glass that has sagged. This is a less expensive solution. They are rebar-like support structures that run along the inner side of lead and join to frame to prevent sagging. Often times the bars can be hidden behind the foiling making them unnoticeable.
Muntins and Mullions
The term "muntin" is a common term used by those who are familiar with windows. These vertical wood strips are used to separate the panes of the traditional multi-paned windows. Typically, they're employed in older homes to preserve the authentic appearance and are sometimes required by city ordinances when constructing or renovating in a historic district. Modern replacement windows mainly make use of muntins to improve the appearance of the window rather than for strength and stability. Muntins are still vulnerable to deterioration and should be replaced if they get damaged or decayed.
Many window manufacturers today don't distinguish between muntins or mullions since they serve the exact same purpose. These terms are often interchangeable however if you're replacing your windows, it's crucial to know the distinctions so that you and your contractor can talk about the details of the project.
A mullion is a horizontal support that holds several panes of tempered glass. It was necessary before the advent in glass manufacturing technology, since larger pieces were virtually impossible to manufacture. The frames of today's windows are made of two glass pieces that are joined together. Mullions are often used in older windows to provide support and are also used for aesthetic purposes.
If your mullions show signs of aging they can be easily repaired them by applying a tiny bead of silicone on both sides of the muntin and then pressing it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal piece you might need to use a copingsaw in order to remove the old muntin. Then, form the top of the new muntin with the aid of a file. If you'd like to blend in, buy a new muntin slightly different from the original.
Certain IGUs feature both real muntins and mullions which are built into the unit for use only. If you have a problem with these components it's likely that it's time to replace your window.
Frame
You don't want to alter the appearance of your frame by painting it however if you need to touch it up, use a sanding sponge on a fine grit to get rid of any old paint and stains. Use a dry rag to clean it again. Pay particular attention to the corners at the mitered joints. If the joints have opened a bit, try to close them gently, and use some wood glue to hold them together again. You can also use vinegar to dissolve the old glue in these areas, however you might need to test it on one or two corners before putting it all over.
If the corners aren't tight enough and pose a problem you may be able to disassemble the whole frame to examine them, and then follow the steps 3 through 8 to solve the issue. If the separation is small and only on one side, it may be possible to let the joint open a bit by wiggling.
If the corners have completely fallen apart, you'll require needle-nose pliers and a flat surface, small clamps and wood glue. If only the top and bottom corners have split, you can often use finishing nails (those are tiny nails that are very similar to the size of the head) into the corner of the frame, to keep it securely in place once the glue is dry. It is important not to place the nails too close to the corner or you may weaken it. You can reinforce the corner with carpenter's glue and wood putty or a hammer.