When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.

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

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

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 replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

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

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window repairs is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in most double glazing repairs near me-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.