When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should seek out an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

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

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could 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 window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to make 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 at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

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

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting 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 called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the upvc window repair. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted upvc window repair muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second 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 cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.

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

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

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