When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and double glazing repairs Wembley other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to assist repair the issue right away. 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 layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are Double Glazing Repairs Wembley-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help 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 appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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. After WWII, Double Glazing Repairs Wembley larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut 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 tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double glazing Beaconsfield-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.