When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but possible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window repairs glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the upvc window repair frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements as well.