When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive, but it can let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window Repair Bletchley. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, Window repair Bletchley or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repairs Mansfield repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

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

If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of 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, 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 focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with 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.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in all 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 does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon 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 made with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.