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 cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

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

A more serious, but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window repairs near me (click this) glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak 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 reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from outside or 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 leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical 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. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues 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.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window repair near me.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.