When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

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

Impact cracks are the most popular kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazing repair stanmore-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and Window Repair Grays remove any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended 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.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must call for help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window repair Grays against the elements.