When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.

An impact crack is the most common type of window repair near me break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water leak into the house.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes 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. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut 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 layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering 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 an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove 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 then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the upvc window repairs frame. You'll want to carefully 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 reside.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

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