When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low 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 bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. upvc repairs near me repairs - Read Alot more, can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. 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, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a 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 cases it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues 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 problem is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.