When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, Double Glazed Window Repairs you must work carefully. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked 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, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust 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 best to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, 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 repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

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

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can be 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 sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal upvc window repairs muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you should call for help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with 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 properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double glazed window repairs-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 doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a larger problem.

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