When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. First, you should wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

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

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window Repairs Sittingbourne and Window repairs Sittingbourne could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

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

Check the seal between your double glazing repairs Camberley-paned window and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to 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 the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

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. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

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