When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for double glazing Sidcup example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

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

If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the Double Glazing Repairs Cambridge-pane window and decrease 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 factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

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

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. If left unchecked, 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 right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most Double Glazing Sidcup-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 isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.