When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. 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 frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

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

If windows are double glazed window repairs-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your upvc window repairs near me from the elements.