When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. If 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's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, repairmywindowsanddoors and other squatters and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few other products available for repairing 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 go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window repair Uxbridge, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, repairmywindowsanddoors caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and repairmywindowsanddoors the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find 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 and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split 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 offer the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.