When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have Double Glazing Derby-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If you have Double Glazing Repair Hayes-paned windows You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result 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 traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, double glazing Derby they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the 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 issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to seek help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. 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. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.