When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and Window Repair Waltham Abbey gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double glazing repairs Harrow-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If you have double glazing Stanmore-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time, however, and let water get into the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully 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 better to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. It is important to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.