When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive however, it could 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 change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can 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 glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your Window Repair Woking appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double glazing repair Sidcup-paned window and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint 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 the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.