When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. First, put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double glazing near me-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

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

A more serious, but feasible crack 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 that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. The excess moisture can create 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 not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, window repair near me but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water get into the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of 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) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.