When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend 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 ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. glass window repair Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

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

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window repair near me frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.