When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

A quick fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

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

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazing repairs Sunbury-on-Thames-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend 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 nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in 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 an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass with muntins that are that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, Window Repairs Ealing or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double glazing repair Sunbury-on-Thames-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your Window repairs Ealing frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.