When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, timber dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your upvc window repair near me look like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, timber sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

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

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.