Repair Window Tips From The Top In The Business

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix 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 particles and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, home contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

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

Check the seal between your double glazed window repairs-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken upvc window repairs sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed 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 push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for problems 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. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.