When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with 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 popular type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazing Stevenage pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. There may also be 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, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for window repairs Brentwood 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 are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window repair Eltham sash is an obvious indication that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a larger problem.

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 the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.