What Experts Say You Should Know

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double glazed window repair pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of 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 way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double glazed window repairs-hung windows. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different it's difficult to place the new one in its slot and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

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