When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

A quick fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, seal bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. 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. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your upvc window repairs near me from the elements.