When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch 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 windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

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 help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing 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. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and m1bar.com horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double glazed window repairs-hung upvc window repair models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

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