When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, door Repair dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window repair near me, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could cause 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. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among 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 though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

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

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. 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, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the existing one.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety 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 offer the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.