When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your Window Repairs Corby 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 If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor window repairs Corby air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

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

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

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window repair Whitstable. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After 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 that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to contact a professional. A sash that is broken 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 right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.