When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable 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 have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

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 it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of leaks. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. 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 trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as a genuine mullion or replace muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on most double glazing repairs Coulsdon-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip of separation 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 will be hard to place the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.