When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

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

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double glazed window repairs panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called 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 went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, upvc window Repairs use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you have a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must call for help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot 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 properly sealed and functioning.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the Upvc window repairs frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to place the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.