When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and double glazing repairs Reigate inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the Double Glazing Repairs Reigate-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and 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 severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you 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 any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double glazing Feltham-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion 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 completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and double glazing Repairs Reigate applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These 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 damaged window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection 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 more serious issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.