When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazing pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could 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 Doctor Near Me 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 take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had 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 the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double-paned window doctor and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (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 fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off 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 best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.