User description

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.


Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If window repairs near me experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.