When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin upvc door repairs near me the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically 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 functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.