When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

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

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for window repair example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave 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 using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window repair, http://m.010-5457-0006.1004114.co.kr/bbs/board.Php?bo_table=42&wr_id=18591,. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, window repair however.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can 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 working.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash windows repair in place. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.