When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double glazing repair Mitcham Glazing repair Whitstable (repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk)-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

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 rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these 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.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, Double Glazing Repair Whitstable wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double glazing repair Sutton-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

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