Why Repair Window Is So Helpful When COVID-19 Is In Session

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, you should put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home appear less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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 of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any problems or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.