When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your upvc window repairs near me with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and replacements mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and replacements removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. 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 using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.