When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive but also let drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

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 arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin door repairman near me the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

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

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, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to upvc doors repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window glass repair near me. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to contact a professional. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.