When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, double glazing repair Streatham put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden 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 functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double Glazing Repair Streatham-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

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

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch 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.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, double glazing repair Streatham caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

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

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get 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. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most Double glazing repairs Wickford-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.