When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and double glazing repair Grays other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of the double glazing repairs Windsor-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double glazing Sidcup-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting 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 referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double glazing repair Grays-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should fix any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.