When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the house. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your upvc repair window repairs; www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk, with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window doctor, and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to 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, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

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

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

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