When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window repairs, installed or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows repairs near me are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

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

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening 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 larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, installed you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

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

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, too.