When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double glazing-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window replacement near me, or notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away 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 held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of 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.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will 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 contact a professional. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.