When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you 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 is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most frequent kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double glazing-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products available for repairing 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 method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time for a windows upvc repair. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

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

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove 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 part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid Window doctor. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. 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 right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.