When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window repair is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the upvc window repairs near me. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical 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 on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged 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 damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new upvc window repairs near me.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.