When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your upvc window repairs near me is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window repairs appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or Window Repairs notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

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

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away with time and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

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

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a 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 these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must seek help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.