When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but possible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can decrease indoor Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and double glazed window repairs near me can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Don't put off 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 but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in 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.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of 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 help to protect your window repairs from the elements too.