When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

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, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

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

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows are double glazing repair Ramsgate-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator 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 known in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some 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 rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and repairer more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, repairer replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, you must be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

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