When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example 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 working correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. 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 portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass shape 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 is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided look. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should seek help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new upvc window repairs near me.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled 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 will also shield your window from the elements.