When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double glazing repair Putney-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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 and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion 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. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.

Examine the seal between your double glazing repair Leighton Buzzard-paned windows and the frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and Double glazing repair Putney let water enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

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

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should seek help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

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

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you notice any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.