When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will stop 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, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double Glazing Aylesbury-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in 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 that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double glazing repairs Grays panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a full glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for Double Glazing Aylesbury any signs of damage or decay. 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 bigger issue.