When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not damaged. 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 is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and double glazing near me recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window repairs on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

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 can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. 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 best to seek out a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

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

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

Make sure you have a seal between your double glazing near me - click to find out more,-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, as well.