When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. First, you should wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window repair near me, even if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

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

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double glazed window repairs near me-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window repairs or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

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

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window repair muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems 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.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.