When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

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

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, [Redirect-302] and let water enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the upvc window repairs frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well, for lock any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.