Five Repair Window Lessons From The Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair 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 simple fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

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

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes 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. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window.  window repair  can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth 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 using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.