When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

A quick solution to a damaged window repairs is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.

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

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double glazing repairs near me-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

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

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be repaired. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

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

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the 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 the design and size of the present one.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much 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 is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper positions 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 recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.