Why Repair Window Is Right For You?

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

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

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite 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 as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but possible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high 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 tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it is soft or installed decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indicator installed of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair double glazing windows the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint repairs to upvc windows dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause 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 possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.