When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your upvc window repair near me window repairs - Read the Full Document, is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting 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 quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

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

A more serious but still doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure, uPVC window repairs which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you 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 like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window then it's probably 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.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

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 boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.