When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and sash broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, sash or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double glazed window repairs near me-paned window repair near me and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, 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. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.