When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and double Glazed window Repairs insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window repairs near me from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window repair near me with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your Double glazed window Repairs-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

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

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you spot 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 have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.