When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple 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, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective upvc repair (Http://gwwa.yodev.Net) method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties 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 glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal 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 layer of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window replacement is properly sealed and working.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to 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 need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.