When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window repairs near me is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window repairs near me glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

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

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying 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 traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Often, double glazing repairs a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal 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 layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must call for help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for repairing damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.