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When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair upvc windows, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing however, repair windows it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to consult with 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 common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall 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.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

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

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving 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 ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy 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. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip that separates the sash.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

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 boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.