When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked, double glazing repairs Thamesmead but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double pane windows, double Glazing repairs Thamesmead this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself, 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 at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming 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 layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

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

If windows have double glazing Milton Keynes panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A broken sash, if 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 right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in all Double glazing repairs Thamesmead-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you find any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.