When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break 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 fracture, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window 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 sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting 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) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned 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.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted upvc window repairs near me muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with 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 repair near me (Cadplm Co says). These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones 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 can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

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