8 Tips To Enhance Your Repair Window Game

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

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

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

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

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your upvc window repairs, or notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

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

Check the seal between your double glazing repair-paned window and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water enter the home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off 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 the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

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