When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, double glazing repair you should put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

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

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

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler 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 is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot 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 is sealed and working.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords on most double glazing-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window Doctor frame as well, for any damage or window doctor rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.