When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating correctly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazing repair Bethnal Green-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to 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 tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are double glazing repairs Ascot-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and glazing held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.