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 shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

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

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window repair near me and could be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on walls and Window Repair Near Me ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window repair near Me sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window repairs near me sash should be a sign that you must seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

After 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's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.