When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to 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 feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking 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 it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

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

Check the seal between your double glazing repairs Hayes-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative 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 need to contact a professional. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.