When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and 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 prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your Window Repairs Loughton and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, window repairs Loughton caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between the double glazing repairs Islington-paned window repairs Richmond and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, window repairs Loughton you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.