When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.

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

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of the double glazing repairs Macclesfield-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

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

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it 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. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy 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 new coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's 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.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should seek help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most Double Glazing Repairs Rochdale-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, double glazing repairs Rochdale push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements too.