When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your Window doctor appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and window Doctor get rid of any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, Upvc Repairs the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or window doctor decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements as well.