When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double glazed window repairs near me pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's 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 can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion 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. 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 prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off 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 with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or window repair wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing upvc window repairs near me in both the design and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window repair is properly sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or window repair improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

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