When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends 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 glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like 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 decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window repair near me. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being attached to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for Window Repairs Near Me about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to contact a professional. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.