When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double glazing near me-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

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

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in Window Repairs Near Me glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, 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 spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening 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), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window repair frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to 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.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or Window Repairs Near Me decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.