When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window repairs near me is cracked but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could 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 to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, near sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need 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, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical upvc window repairs near me muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the 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. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements as well.