When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can 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 that causes the glass to expand or contract.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness 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 lead to a number of problems within your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

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. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window repair near me frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.