When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of the double Glazing Repairs Rochester-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near 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 typically a curvy line that runs 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.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

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

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling 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. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double glazing Carshalton-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed the sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for double glazing repairs Rochester two full days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.