When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double Glazed window repairs near me-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then 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 blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine your upvc window repair near me frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and double glazed window Repairs near me wear down over time. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your upvc window repair near me frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.