When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

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

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

If the crack is becoming larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window doctor near me, and can progress to full-blown breaks.

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

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair 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 durability for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If windows have double glazing panes You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window Doctor that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need 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 the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.