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Tips For Repairing Window A lot of windows require repair to ensure that they open and close properly. If the seal is cracked and is causing your energy bills to rise or your home to feel drafty, fixing your window can save you money in the long run. Stiff hinges can often be fixed with a little oil or using the ratchet tool to loosen the cover of the operator. Repairing a cracked window is also attainable for the DIYer. Cracked or Broken Glass If your window is broken or cracked glass, you must fix the issue as quickly as possible. If you do not address the crack, it can become worse and create airflow issues in your house. If you're not confident in doing the repair yourself, a professional may help. Depending on the severity of your window, there are several different methods 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 sunlight and air to flow through. You can go one step further by using epoxy. This option is more labor intensive but can result in a more attractive end product. In the beginning, you'll need to clean the area around the crack. Mix a small amount of soap with water and put a cotton rag in it, then carefully clean the crack to remove dirt or other debris. After the window has dried, apply the epoxy in accordance with the directions on the packaging. After the epoxy has set, use a putty blade to scrape off any excess and smooth the surface. Stress cracks are the most common type of crack found in window glass in a home. They typically begin at the edge of the glass and extend through the pane. These are usually caused by changes in temperature in your home, and they can become worse over time. If one pane of a double-pane window is broken it is necessary to replace the whole unit. This is because these windows are sealed comprising two glass pieces that function as one. This is different from normal windows, which are replaced with a brand new window frame. To replace a glass pane in a double-pane window you'll need to remove the glazing clips or points that hold the window in place. Keep your list of the parts that you'll need to replace in a broken glass pane. You'll need to scrape old putty away and then apply the new one for windows of different types. Stained Glass The delicate pieces of glass that comprise stained glass windows are tough and fragile. The rough treatment, the impact of hard objects or a sudden shift in temperature can crack and break the glass. Even if a piece of glass is broken it can be repaired and saved the expense of removing and replacing the panel. Stained glass experts can employ different methods to repair the damage including re-leading, re-foiling or re-foil painting or platina and then adding new glass. It can be challenging and time-consuming to repair or replace broken stained glass. It is essential to employ an experienced professional who is familiar with the various repair methods that are available and can choose the best one for the particular project. Each repair technique has distinct reversibility, strength, and visual effects. This is why each should be assessed separately. Re-leading is a common method of repairing cracked lead glass. A skilled craftsman will bend a piece of soft ductile led, also known as came back into shape to fit the crack. Once the piece has been bent, it is soldered into place and then the cement is used to keep it in place. Once the new cement has cured the crack can be cleaned, polished and sealed. Another way to fix cracked leaded glass is by noting the crack, and then leading the glass piece again. This is a more labor intensive and expensive process, however it can be successful. First the cracked piece of glass is removed and cleaned before being 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 mold growth. After the lead has been removed the sanded glass surface is cleaned and the new lead is then soldered into place. An easier option for repairing sagging stained glass is to include reinforcing bars to the window. These are rebar-like supports that run along the inside of the lead, and connect to the frame to help stop the glass from sliding. The bars are often hidden behind foils with decorative designs, making them virtually invisible. Muntins and Mullions Anyone who is familiar with windows might be familiar with the term “muntin.” These vertical wood strips separate window panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Typically, they are employed in older homes to preserve their authentic appearance and are often required by city ordinances when constructing or renovating in a historical district. Many modern replacement windows only make use of muntins to improve the aesthetics of the window, not to ensure strength and stability. However, they can get damaged and if they're broken or rotting it is possible to replace them with fresh pieces. A lot of window manufacturers today don't distinguish between muntins or mullions since they have the same function. The terms are often used interchangeably. However, should you be replacing your windows, it's important to know the distinction between them to ensure that you and your contractor are on the same team when discussing the details of your project. A mullion is a single vertical prop that holds glass panes together in a multi-pane composition. It was required prior to the advent in glass manufacturing technology because larger pieces were almost impossible to manufacture. Nowadays, windows do not require mullions because the frames are constructed of two glass units that are glued to one another. However, some older types of windows have mullions in place to provide support, and they are commonly used to enhance the appearance of windows. If your mullions show signs of age they can be repaired easily 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 mug, you may have to use a coping saw to cut off the old piece and then form the ends using a file to fit into the mortise of another horizontal muntin. If double glazing repairs Barnet 'd like to blend in, buy an entirely new muntin that is slightly different from the original. Certain IGUs have both muntins (real mullions) and muntins (replicas) that are built in the unit only for effect. If you are having issues with these elements it's probably 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 using a sanding brush, you can use a sponge with the fine grits to get rid of any stains and paint. Clean it up with a dry cloth, paying special attention to the corners of the mitered joints. If they've opened a little and you are unable to close them, try closing them with a gentle touch, and then apply some wood glue to hold them back together. You can also use vinegar to break down old adhesive. However, you may want to test the vinegar on a few corners before applying it to all of them. If the corners are loose and an issue you may be able to disassemble the whole frame to examine them, and follow the steps 3 through 8 to fix it. If the separation is only small and only on one side, it could be possible to open the joint a little by wiggling. If the corners are broken completely, you will need a small clamp, wood glue and needle-nosed pliers. If only the top or bottom corners have broken away You can usually use finishing nails (those are tiny nails that are similar in size to the head) into the corner of the frame, to help keep it firmly in place once the glue has dried. Be cautious not to place the nails too near the corner, or you could weaken the frame. You can also strengthen the corner using carpenter's glue and a hammer, or wood putty.