When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

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 such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window doctor (just click the next document) or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for window Replacement around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The problem is often caused by damaged or Upvc repairs improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

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