When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut 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 tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some 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've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in most double glazing repairs near me - repairmywindowsanddoors.Co.uk,-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.