Why Repair Window Will Be Your Next Big Obsession

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

An easy fix for a window repair near me that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp 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 dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties 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 glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut 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 tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window repair frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and install more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs 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 it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements as well.