Five Repair Window Lessons Learned From Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution 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 debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but still doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time, upvc Door repairs near me the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be 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 with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and upvc door repairs near me horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you have a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window repairs near me sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should fix any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.