When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of upvc window repair near me break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

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

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint as a result of the water weakening 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 panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the upvc window repairs near me. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and broken compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.