When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're looking to take 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 can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

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

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water get into the home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and Window Repair muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window repairs. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted Window repair muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your upvc window repairs frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a larger problem.

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 two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.