When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double Glazing (http://0522565551.Ussoft.kr/)-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

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

A more serious but still feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends 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.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Don't put off 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. It is important to clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can upvc repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to 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.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and is possible in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.