When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have Double Glazing Repairs Southend-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

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

A more serious but feasible 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 further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double glazing Sidcup-paned windows, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After 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 you lightly painted in the initial 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 fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and Double Glazing Repairs Southend size of the present one.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements too.