When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

A quick fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, repairmywindowsanddoors even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to speak with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window doctor with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or RepairMyWindowsAndDoors low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window doctor near me. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and RepairMyWindowsAndDoors use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to be sure to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.