When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double glazed window repairs near me-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

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

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This 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 that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening 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) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it will 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.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.