When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and fitters also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common upvc window repairs near me breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied 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 may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and [empty] the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away 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 held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim 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 tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended 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 present one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window repair near me frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.