When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could 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 can develop gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. 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 can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your Upvc window repair Near me or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and Upvc window repair Near me remove any existing caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of 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, seal 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 stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window repair, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and upvc window repair near me boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.