When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double glazing Windsor pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes 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 typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and double glazing repairs Wellingborough structural damage.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double glazing Edgware panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing 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 panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat 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 problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, double glazing Repairs wellingborough and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to seek help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of Double glazing repairs wellingborough-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.