When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or Window Repairs Near Me are the result of stress, for example an abrupt 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 working correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window repairs near me (Repairmywindowsanddoors Co's website), it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to 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 windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, Window Repairs Near Me for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon 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 with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.