When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

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

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

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your upvc window repairs glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. 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 contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the most common 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 carefully clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

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

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Take off any rotting or loose 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 seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must seek help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, you must be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.