When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and Window Repair twickenham keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window repairs Marlow with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure that causes 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 nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water enter the home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative Window Repair Twickenham sash and will provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access 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 put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.