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 put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazed window repairs near me-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find 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 offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or window repair muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's recommended to check it 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 addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window repair against the elements.