When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

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

Glass that has cracked

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window Doctor or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and Window Doctor mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should contact a professional. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your upvc window repairs frames have begun to deteriorate 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 then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.