When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and Upvc Window Repairs safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your upvc window repairs from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an arc 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-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a 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 can be the result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your upvc window repairs glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

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

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of the presence of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate 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 can be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your upvc window repairs frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.