When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

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

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window repairs's energy efficiency.

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

A more serious but still doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends 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.

If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major Double glazed window repairs near me cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

If windows are double glazed window repairs near Me-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.