When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double glazing repairs Rickmansworth-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

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

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

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

If windows have double glazing repair Rochdale panes, double glazing repairs Rickmansworth you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If it's not checked, 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 as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double glazing repair Rochdale-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you find 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 need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.