When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window repair St Albans appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a 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 these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, window repair Bishops Stortford replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double glazing repairs St Albans-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, be sure to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window repair Bishops Stortford.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.