When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, you should wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window repair Romford if it's not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It is a curvy, curve that extends 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 looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

Examine the seal between your Double glazing repair Guildford-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. 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 layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with the muntins being attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can 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 properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.