When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or has become 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 usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double glazed window Repairs Near me-pane window repairs and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and Double Glazed window repairs near me can cause various issues within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

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

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. 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, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off 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 better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

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 purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.