When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and double glazed Window repairs near me nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind 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 doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, double glazed Window Repairs near me paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash windows repair (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be 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 rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements too.