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Buzzwords De-Buzzed: 10 More Methods To Say Repairing Window
Tips For Repairing Window

Many windows require repair to ensure they open and shut properly. Repairing your window can save you money in the event that the seal is damaged and causes your energy bills to increase, or your home to feel cold.

Stiff hinges can often be fixed with a little oil or using the ratchet tool to loosen the cover for the operator. Repairing a cracked window is also feasible for a DIYer.

Cracked or Broken Glass

It's important to fix the issue as soon as you can if the window is damaged or has broken glass. The crack could worsen if it's left unattended and can cause airflow issues in your home. If you're not comfortable handling the fix yourself, a professional may assist.

Depending on the severity of your window, there are several different ways to fix it. The most straightforward option is to apply clear tape to the crack. This will protect your family from being cut by glass shards, while still allowing air and sunlight to pass through. If you'd like to go a step further, you could make use of epoxy. This option is more labor-intensive, however, it can produce a more attractive end product.

It is important to first clean the crack. Dip a cotton rag in the mixture of soap and water and then gently scrub the area that has cracked. After the window has dried, apply the epoxy according to the instructions on the packaging. When the epoxy has hardened then use a putty knife to remove any excess, and sand it to smooth the surface.

Stress cracks are the most frequent kind of crack that can be found in a window glass in a home. These usually begin at the edge of the glass and extend across the entire pane. These are usually caused by changes in temperature within your home and can worsen over time.

For double-pane windows, you'll have to replace the entire window if one pane breaks. This is due to the fact that these windows are sealed comprising two glass pieces that function as one. This is not the same as regular windows that can be replaced with frames that are new.

To replace a pane of glass in your double-pane window, you'll have to remove the glazing clips or points that secure the window. If you're replacing a damaged pane, ensure you keep track of the pieces to be able to replace them in the future. You'll need to scrape the old putty off and then reapply the new pane for different kinds of windows.

Stained Glass

The tiny pieces of glass used to make stained glass windows are brittle and fragile. Glass can break and be broken by rough treatment, impacting with hard objects or the sudden change in temperature.

The positive side is that even if the piece of glass is damaged, it could be repairable and can be free from the expense of replacing the panel and removal. Experts in stained glass can fix the damage using various methods, including releading or refoiling or soldering. They can also paint or patina the glass or add new glass.

It can be a challenge and time-consuming to replace or repair broken stained glass. It is important to use a professional with experience who is knowledgeable of the various repair techniques that are available and can select the most appropriate one for your specific task. Reversibility, strength, and visual effect of each repair method will differ, so each one must be assessed on a case by case basis.

Re-leading is an effective method of repairing cracked lead glass. A skilled artisan can cut a piece of soft ductile lead, called came, to size and then bend it to fit the crack. After the piece has been bent, it is then soldered into place and then cement is used to hold it in its place. Once the new cement has dried, the crack can then be polished, cleaned and sealed.

A second way to repair damaged leaded glass is by spotting the crack and then re-leading the piece of glass. This is a labor-intensive and costly process, but it is a viable option. The broken piece of glass is removed and cleaned, then sanded to smooth the surface. Then the lead knife or pincers are used to cut off the old lead and clean off any oxidation or growth. Once the old lead is removed, the sanded area of the glass is wiped down and the new lead is formed to be a perfect fit with the damaged area before being soldered to the damaged area.

Reinforcing window repairs are a good addition to the window to repair stained glass that is sagging. This is a less expensive solution. These are rebar-like supports that run along the interior side of lead and connect to frame to prevent sagging. Often times the bars can be hidden behind the foiling with decorative designs making them invisible.

Muntins and Mullions

The term "muntin" is well-known to people who are familiar with windows. These wood strips that are vertical are used to separate the panes of traditional windows with multi-panes. They are typically used to create an authentic look in older homes and are sometimes required by city ordinances for construction or renovations in historical areas. Modern replacement windows mainly use muntins to enhance the aesthetics of the window, rather than to ensure strength and stability. Muntins are still vulnerable to deterioration and should be replaced if damaged or decayed.

A lot of window companies today do not distinguish between mullions and muntins because they both have the same function. These terms are often interchangeable however if you're replacing your windows it is important to understand the differences so that you and your contractor can discuss the details of the project.

A mullion is the single vertical prop that holds glass panes together in a multi-pane composition. This was a necessity before the introduction of glass manufacturing technology as larger pieces were nearly impossible to produce. The frames of modern windows are made from two glass units that are glued together. However, older styles of windows do have mullions to provide support, and they are frequently used to enhance the appearance of windows.

If your mullions have signs of age they can be easily repaired them by putting a dot or two of silicone on both sides of the muntin. Then press it into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal piece it is possible to use a copingsaw in order to remove the old muntin and then form the top of the new muntin with the help of a file. If you'd like to blend in, you can purchase an entirely new muntin that is slightly different from the original.

Some IGUs have both muntins (real mullions) and muntins (replicas) that are constructed in the unit only to provide effect. If you're having issues with these components, it's likely time to replace the window.

Frame

You don't want to alter the appearance of your frame by painting it, but if you do need to touch it up, use a sanding sponge on the fine grits to get rid of any old paint and stains. Use a dry rag to clean it again. Pay special attention to the corners around the mitered joints. Use wood glue to re-glue them in the event that they have opened up. You can also make use of vinegar to dissolve the old glue in these areas, however you might need to test it on an area or two before putting it all over.

If the corners are loose and a problem you should disassemble the entire frame to access them, and then follow the steps 3-8 to fix the problem. However, if the separation is only on one side, you may be able to pull the joint slightly without disassembling it.

If the corners are utterly broken, you will need a small clamp, wood glue, and needle-nosed pliers. If only the top and bottom corners are damaged, you can hammer finishing nails (these are thin nails with a similar size 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 could weaken it. You can also reinforce the corner with carpenter's glue and a hammer, or wood putty.