When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your upvc window repairs with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or repairs low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can 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 is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double glazed window repairs-paned window and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks 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 indicator 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split 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 leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.