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 put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and Repair My Windows And Doors affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable Repair My Windows And Doors procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It 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 that causes the glass to expand or contract.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water destroying 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 glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords on most double glazing-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the upvc window repairs frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. 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 against the elements.