When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double glazing Kettering pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double glazing repairs South Ockendon-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. 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 could be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must contact a professional. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and double glazing kettering other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, double Glazing Kettering as wood will shrink and wear 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 deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.