When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double glazing repairs Tottenham-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and Double glazing Hertford muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated 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 like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most Double glazing Hertford-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, as well.