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 shards.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and Window Repairs Ashford ensure your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window repairs Ashford cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double glazing repairs Burnham-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if 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. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

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

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to 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 and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find a replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you must call for help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double glazing repair Sale-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to 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're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.