When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and window repair near me keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your upvc window repairs with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of the double-pane Window repair near Me and decrease its energy efficiency.

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

A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of, Window Repair Near Me a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. It is important to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.