When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which can 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 go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and wooden walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the upvc window repairs near me frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should call for help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, window Repair wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.