How to Repair a Bow Window
Your home can be enhanced in terms of energy efficiency and more valuable by replacing bow windows. The cost of the windows will vary depending on the frame material and glass options.
Triple-pane or double-pane windows can be insulated with Krypton or Argon. Insulated glass reduces heating and cooling costs.
Support Cables
Stained glass windows are based on stainless-steel cables that transfer tension from the window frame to structures above and below. These cables follow a parabolic shape to resist wind loads. Over time the cables can develop a stress pattern that causes them to bow outwards, even encroaching on the brace bar that prevents inward bowing. This condition can be caused by building settlement or temperature fluctuations, as well as corrosion of the window lead and breakage of the wire ties that join the window to brace bars. Out-of-plane bowing eases the pressure on the stained glass and the framework and prevents further damage. It also allows the window to be free of the confinement lead, making it more weather-resistant. It could be extremely dangerous however, to work on these bows if they're not secured correctly.
Add an additional wrap
Bow windows can provide your home with an appealing appearance, stunning views of the outdoors, and a feeling of spaciousness. But, because these windows are affixed to the building they are susceptible to distortions or sagging in time. If a bow-window becomes saggy it can cause structural damage to your home and alter the integrity of both the glass and the roof. There are many ways to repair the bow window temporarily until you are able to get the glass replaced by professionals.
The first thing to do is determine the place where the sagging began. If it is in the center you can install support cables in an L-shaped shape at the base of the frame. This will raise the window a bit and distribute its weight evenly. If the sagging is at the top or bottom, you'll need to insert support brackets.
If the glass is in good condition you can also put on an additional wrap to help strengthen it. To protect the glass cut a piece of an old wooden stir stick for painter to the appropriate size and cover it with wax paper. Wrap the stick around the bridge of the glasses, crisscrossing as needed to create a thick. Leave double glazed window bow to be cut later and soak the wrap in glue prior securing it to the glasses.
You can purchase the crash wrap from a variety of auto and hardware stores at a cheap cost. This is a type of clear packaging tape that provides strong, flexible support for your glasses. The greatest benefit is that it's much simpler to work with than duct tape and is removed with ease once the repair is completed.
Engage a professional for the installation of the bay or bow window. This will ensure that it is done right. These windows could require more openings or be connected to structural elements in the home. They may also require replacing window flashing and tinkering with electrical wiring, which could be risky for contractors who aren't experienced. Additionally, bay and bow windows weigh significantly more than flat window designs which makes them more difficult to install.
Add a Filler
Bow windows add a distinctive aesthetic to any house and also allow for more light and views. These big, curved windows often have a window sill or seat to create a focal-point in an area. They also add more space. They may sag in time, similar to their cousins the bay windows.
If you're building a new bow window or replacing an existing one it is essential to build a solid frame base. Make sure the frame and header are set to withstand the weight of the bow window using jack studs, and 2 4's in place of blocks as needed.
Install the window once you have constructed solid foundation. Use a bubble level to make sure that the window is placed in a straight line and straight on both sides. After the window is in position, you can install a cable kit to help with support and stability. The cable helps distribute the weight to the wall and helps prevent sagging.
It may be a smart idea to put brackets under the base in case the bow window is sagging at one point. They can be installed using a drill and are usually made to fit into the corner of a home. Once they are installed, the brackets can be screwed into a wall and then placed in a uniform manner over the bottom of the window.
It is also important to maintain your bow windows frequently. Cleaning should include a thorough cleaning of all the glass panes and panels and frames. It is recommended to grease moving parts once a year in order to prevent them from squeaking or sticking.
Installing or replacing windows with bows is a great option to improve the appearance of your home, however it is not a DIY task even if you have experience in construction. These windows are huge and heavy, and require modifications to the structural components of a house that can be expensive. They also involve cutting and working around electrical wiring, which is a job that should be left to professionals.