When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window repair Kingston is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. 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 cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your 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're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects 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 held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and Window Repair Kentish Town vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find an alternative Window Repair Kentish Town that is in line with the design and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should call for help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

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