When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

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 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 when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.

If windows have Double Glazing Repairs Greenwich panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects 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 known in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and double glazing Repairs Greenwich size of the existing one.

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

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must seek help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window repair Canterbury is sealed and operating.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double glazing repair Bow-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast 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 made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.