When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

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

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using 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 removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window Doctor Near me sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window replacement near me is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. 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 location where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.