When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. The first step is to put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

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

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of Window doctor break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or upvc window repairs other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than 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 it will 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 like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and is possible in most double glazing repair-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.