When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window repairs near me is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

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

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of 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 right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and Window Repairs Near me pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (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. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be 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 present one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can 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 properly sealed and operating.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window repairs near me frame for any damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements too.