10 Repair Window That Are Unexpected

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your upvc window repairs's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your upvc window repair 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 route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your upvc window repairs look like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being 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 entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

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