When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break 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.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide 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 repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone 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 mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with 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 glazing repairs near me panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass 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 may wear away with time and allow water to enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not 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 many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords for installed the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be repaired 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 with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.