As an Ottawa homeowner, you know how important it is to have windows that withstand the city’s diverse climate. Cracks in your window can compromise your home’s comfort and safety, ranging from small hairline cracks to significant damage. Understanding how to address a cracked window promptly is essential to maintaining your living space.
This guide is designed to help you thoughtfully navigate the steps following window damage. We’ll explore the necessary precautions, potential repairs, and when to consider replacement to ensure your home remains secure and efficient.
Assessing the Cracked Window
When you notice a crack, start by evaluating the extent of the damage. Look at the size and type of crack in the glass to determine the best course of action.
Understanding Types of Cracks
- Stress Cracks: These are thin lines that typically occur due to thermal stress. Sudden temperature changes, such as boiling summer heat or freezing winter winds, can cause the glass to expand or contract, leading to cracks.
- Impact Cracks: Something hitting the window, like a ball or a rock, can create these more obvious cracks. They usually start at a point and spread outwards.
- Pressure Cracks: These types of cracks typically occur in insulated or double-glazed windows. High-rise buildings experience air pressure changes that might lead to such cracks.
Measure and Take Pictures
Take proper measurements of the crack, noting its location and size. Use a ruler to get as close to accurate measurements as possible. It’s helpful to take pictures as well. This documentation will be valuable if you need to make an insurance claim or if you hire professionals to handle the repair.
Securing the Cracked Area
Once you’ve assessed the damage, it’s essential to secure the area to prevent further issues.
Immediate Safety Measures
– Use Masking Tape: Use masking tape to cover the crack, keeping the glass in place and preventing further damage. Place the tape on both sides of the window for added stability.
– Use Duct Tape for Stronger Repairs: If the crack is severe, duct tape can provide a stronger repair option in the short term. Ensure your fix doesn’t compromise the window’s ability to handle its weight or stress.
– Avoid Stress on the Glass: Keep the area around the cracked glass free of items that might put extra pressure on it. Avoid slamming nearby doors, as vibrations can worsen the damage.
Child Safety Precautions
Keep children away from cracked areas to avoid accidents. Inform everyone in the household about the damage so they can take extra care around the window.
Deciding Between Repair and Replacement
The next step will depend on how badly the window is damaged. Decide whether to repair or replace the window glass.
Minor Cracks: Short-term Fixes
– Nail Polish for Hairline Cracks: A clear nail polish can temporarily seal small cracks. 4. Apply several layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. This will provide brief protection from air and moisture entering through the crack.
– Two-part Epoxy for Stronger Repair: For more robust cracks, a two-part epoxy kit can offer a temporary fix. Follow the instructions to mix and apply the solution to the crack, then let it dry. This method provides a stronger temporary fix for cracked glass until a professional can assess it.
Evaluating for Structural Damage
If the crack is large, runs through multiple panes, or involves insulated glass (IGU), the damage may be structural. Structural cracks affect the window’s integrity and may require specialized window assessment.
– Insulating Glass: If your window is double-glazed or insulated, and you notice fogging between panes or a significant crack, replacement might be necessary. Igus generally can’t be repaired effectively.
– High Rise Considerations: In taller buildings, the stress on windows is greater due to wind pressure and elevation changes. Professional advice is crucial for these situations.
When to Replace the Window Glass
– Age of the Window: If your windows are older or the glass shows signs of age, such as warping or discoloration, replacement is more advisable.
– Energy Efficiency: Modern residential windows help maintain energy efficiency in your home. Windows with cracks can drive up your heating and cooling bills. Replacing them can make your home more energy-efficient, reducing bills.
– Professional Window Glass Replacement: A professional can ensure proper measurements and proper fitment, avoiding further stress and potential future damage.
Using a Professional to Replace the Window
Hiring a window repair pro guarantees not only authentic advice but timely, effective service.
Benefits of Professional Service
- Proper Measurement and Replacement: Professionals like certified glass technicians have the expertise to take precise measurements, ensuring a perfect fit. Proper glass replacement eliminates the risk of future stress cracks caused by poorly fitted windows.
- Expert Evaluation: A professional can inspect other windows for potential issues like aging seals or structural stress, preemptively addressing problems before they escalate.
- Insurance and Warranty: Many professionals offer warranties on their work, guaranteeing you peace of mind. Contact your home insurance provider to see if window damage and repairs are covered.
Important Note on Regular Maintenance
Regular upkeep can help extend the lifespan of your windows. Use a soft cloth and a non-abrasive glass cleaner to keep them spotless. Proper care can prevent certain types of damage, like scratches that may develop into cracks over time.
Conclusion
A cracked window is more than an inconvenience. It’s a potential hazard that can affect your home’s efficiency and comfort. From taking initial safety measures to deciding between repair and replacement, knowing how to handle cracked glass is crucial. Whether you choose to make temporary fixes with nail polish or two-part epoxy or seek replacement from a professional, taking swift and proper action will ensure your home remains a safe and pleasant environment.
Taking immediate action and consulting with professionals when needed will help maintain the comfort and safety of your home. Addressing window cracks promptly can save you time, money, and potential headaches.
