When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common Window repairs Sutton coldfield cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but still doable crack is a pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

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

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with 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 operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double glazing Thamesmead-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. 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, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.