When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

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

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. 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 thoroughly clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect 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 can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn'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 trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the upvc window repairs frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for thewillistree.info less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you should call for help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to 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 properly sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window replacement frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.