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Tips For Repairing WindowMany windows require repairs to ensure they open and shut correctly. If the seal is broken and is causing your energy bills to rise or your house to feel drafty, fixing your window could save you money in the long in the long run.It is possible to fix hinges that are stiff by using a ratchet to remove the cover on the operator's device or a little oil. DIYers can also repair a cracked glass.Cracked or Broken GlassIt's important to fix the issue as soon as possible if a window is cracked or has broken glass. window repair can get worse if it's left unattended and could cause airflow problems in your home. A professional can assist you if you're not confident in your ability to repair the crack by yourself.There are several methods to repair your window, based on the severity of the crack. The simplest solution is to use clear tape to cover the crack. This will protect your family from getting cut by glass shards, while still allowing air and sunlight to pass through the space. You can go a step further and use epoxy. It's a more labor-intensive option however, it can give a more attractive finish.You'll first want to clean around the crack. Mix a bit of soap with water, then dip a cotton rag into it, then carefully clean the crack to remove dirt or debris. Once the window has dried and the epoxy has set, apply it according to the directions on the package. After the epoxy has set then use a putty knife to remove any excess and smooth the surface.The most popular type is a stress crack. They typically start at the edges of the glass and extend throughout the pane. They're usually the result of temperature fluctuations in your home, and they can get worse over time.For double-pane windows, you'll need to replace the entire unit if one pane breaks. The windows are constructed of two pieces which work as one unit. This is different from normal windows, which can be replaced with a new window frame.To replace the glass pane of a double-paned window it is necessary to remove the glazing points or clips that hold the window in place. If you're replacing a damaged pane, ensure you keep track of these pieces so you can replace them in the future. For other types of windows it is necessary to scrape off the old putty, and then reapply it with the new window.Stained GlassThe tiny pieces of glass that compose stained glass windows are brittle and fragile. Rough treatment, impact with hard objects, or a sudden change in temperature can cause cracks and break the glass.The positive side is that even if the piece of glass is broken, it may be repaired and saved from the high cost of replacing the panel and removal. Stained glass experts can use various techniques to repair the damage including re-leading, re-foiling or re-foil painting or soldering, and adding new glass.Replacing or repairing cracked stained glass can be a challenge and time consuming. It is important to use a skilled professional who understands the different repair techniques that are available and will select the most appropriate one for the specific project. Each repair technique has distinct strengths, reversibility, and visual effects. This is why each should be assessed separately.Re-leading is among the most common methods for repairing cracked glass. A skilled craftsman will bend a piece of soft ductile led, also known as came back into shape to fit the crack. After the piece is bent, it is soldered into place and then cement is used to hold it in position. After the new cement has dried the crack can be cleaned, polished and sealed.Another method to repair cracked leaded glass is by noting the crack, and then re-leading the piece of glass. This is a labor-intensive and expensive process, but can be efficient. First, the broken piece of glass is removed and cleaned before being sanded to smooth the surface. The lead is then removed with a lead knife or pincers. Any mold or oxidation can be cleaned away with the lead knife. Once the old lead is removed, the sanded area of the glass is wiped down and then the new lead is shaped to be a perfect fit with the damaged area and then soldered in place.An alternative that is less expensive to fix stained glass that is sagging is to include reinforcing bars to the window. They are rebar-like support structures that are placed along the inside part of the lead and connect to frame to prevent sagging. The bars are usually hidden behind foils with decorative designs, making them unnoticeable.Muntins and MullionsPeople who are familiar with windows may have heard of the term "muntin." These vertical wood strips separate panes of windows in traditional multi-pane windows. Typically, they're used in homes with historic architecture to preserve the authentic appearance and are often required by city ordinances when constructing or renovating a historic district. However, many modern replacement windows utilize muntins for aesthetic purposes only instead of adding strength and stability to the sash. Muntins can still be susceptible to deterioration and should be replaced if damaged or decayed.Many window manufacturers today don't distinguish between mullions and muntins since they serve the same purpose. The terms are often used interchangeably but when you're replacing windows, you must know the distinction between them so you and your contractor are on the same page when discussing the details of your project.A mullion is a vertical support that holds several panes of glass tempered together. It was required prior to the advent in glass manufacturing technology, as larger pieces were virtually impossible to make. The frames of today's windows are made of two glass units that are glued together. However, certain older kinds of windows have mullions to provide support and they are often used to enhance the appearance of windows.If your mullions show signs of aging, you can easily repair them by applying a tiny bead of silicone to both sides of the muntin and then pressing it back into the frame. If you're replacing a horizontal piece, you may need to use a copingsaw in order to remove the old muntin and then shape the end of the new muntin with a file. If you'd like to blend in, purchase a new muntin slightly different from the original.Some IGUs have both muntins (real mullions) and muntins (replicas) which are made in the unit only to provide effect. If you experience issues with these elements, it is likely time to replace your window.FrameIf you want to touch up the frame, you can use an sanding pad that has a fine grit. This will get rid of any stains or paint. Use a dry rag to wash it again. Pay special attention to the corners at the mitered joints. If these have popped open a bit, try to close them gently and apply some wood glue to secure them together again. You can also use vinegar to dissolve the old adhesive. However, you may want to test the vinegar on a few corners prior to applying it to all of them.If the corners aren't tight enough and pose a problem you may be able to disassemble the frame in order to get at them, and then follow the steps 3 to 8 to solve the issue. However, if the gap is very slight and only on one side, you may be able to pull the joint open a little without disassembling it.If the corners are completely broken and the frame is completely broken, you'll require a small clamp, wood glue, and needle-nosed pliers. If only the top and bottom corners have broken away, you can often hit finishing nails (those are tiny nails that are very similar to the size of the head) into the corner of the frame to help keep it firmly in place when the glue is dry. 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 a hammer or wood putty.