When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window replacement on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

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

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, 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 stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window doctor near me (Full Post), it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for window doctor near me damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should 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 have to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.