When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.

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

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low 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 go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

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

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to leak into the house.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint 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 panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, asystechnik.com you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the existing window in both style and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window repair near me sash must be a signal that you must contact a professional. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and is possible 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 isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.