When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing 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, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are functioning effectively.

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

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

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double glazing repair Sale-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window repair Burnham. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on 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 in time.

If windows have double glazing repair Burnham panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to seek help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and Double Glazing Repair Sale more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed your sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper place and could affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any 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. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.