When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazing repairs Lewisham-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, Repairmywindowsanddoors which could cause expansion or repairmywindowsanddoors contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water get into the home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on 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 such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find 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 made of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to seek help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off 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 then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

Once you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for damage or decay. It's a good idea check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

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 is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.