When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

A quick fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

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

If the crack is getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window repair glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window repairs appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, window repairs which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. 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, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the upvc window repair near me frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.