When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. First, wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass repairs near me can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.

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

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

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. 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 broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause 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 repairs. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse 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 that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with 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 window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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 classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made 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 could get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

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

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same function as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of door repair near me, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.