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 fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and 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 more severe crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window repair near me, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

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

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window repair near me (Lookingfor wrote), too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.