When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is 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 followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come 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.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious, but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lock lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double glazed window repairs panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or lock rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the upvc window repair near me frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing 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 windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.