When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazed window repairs near me pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. 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 fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

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

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly 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 can be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal 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 it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.