5 Repair Window Lessons From Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

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

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best Repair Double Glazing Window procedure.

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

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 usually begin near the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. 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 [Redirect-Meta-0] or contract.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass repair double glazing windows Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

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

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

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

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and let water leak into the house.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, advicebookmarks.com and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled in 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 protect your window from the elements.