When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or double glazing repair Rayleigh has become large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the Double Glazing Repair Rayleigh-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

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

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

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

Examine the seal between your double glazing repair Clacton-on-Sea-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to 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. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

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

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on most double glazing repair Uxbridge-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, be sure to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.