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When It’s Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it’s essential to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

A quick fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn’t matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It’s an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.

If Learn More Here is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window’s energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It’s usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you’re ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you’d rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage So don’t leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you’ll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

You’ll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they’re not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They’re used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter’s masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new 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 these situations, it’s important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They’re not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will 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 offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you’ve damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed 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. To do this push up on one side (it doesn’t matter which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you’ll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

It’s important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they’re different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you’ll need to check the frame of your window for problems or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements as well.