When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, 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), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and blown vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing upvc window repair near me in both style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must seek help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or blown rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

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