When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working properly.

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 water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair My Windows And doors method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or repairmywindowsanddoors coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window replacement frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and repairmywindowsanddoors can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you notice any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.