When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

A quick fix for repair window a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix 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 particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair window method.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear 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 weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for 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 it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water enter the home.

Another indication of leaks 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 sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll need to 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 compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window repairman near me frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. 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 new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements too.