When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. First, you should wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at 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 dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window repairs Chingford and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will 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 the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

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

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim 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 portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and is possible in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for damage or blown decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.