When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and Repairmywindowsanddoors lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It's usually 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 could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your upvc window repair, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in a few 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 and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window repairs muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, repairmywindowsanddoors wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.