When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. 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 a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. 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 seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, Upvc Window repair but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (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 only utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. 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 coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and upvc window Repair applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid upvc Window Repair. These windows have a full pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should seek help. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for problems or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.