When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

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

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your upvc window repairs glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

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

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window repairs near me then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new upvc window repairs near me.

You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.