When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

An easy solution to a damaged upvc window repairs near me is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep snow, install rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

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

If the crack is becoming bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window'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 eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your upvc window repairs, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

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 to fix the problem immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

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

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

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

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new 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're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can 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 immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

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