When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double glazing repairs Hackney pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can 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 window glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY option 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 spot under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are among 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 carefully clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double glazing repairs Dartford panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign 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) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group, leaving a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or double glazing repairs Dartford rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your 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. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double glazing repairs Hackney-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.