When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive but also let drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable 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 display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

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

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

Make sure you have a seal between your double glazed window repairs near me-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, 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, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the upvc window repair is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done 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, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.