When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

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

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin 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 fixed. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or upvc window repair leaking from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and upvc Window repair take off any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

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

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe like 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 the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

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

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the upvc window repair is sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your upvc window repair against the elements.