10 Unexpected Repair Window Tips

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double glazed window repairs near me (Learn More Here)-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

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

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.

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

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

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 cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement upvc window repairs sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.