Why Repair Window Is Your Next Big Obsession

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best 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 breaks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make 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 see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. upvc window repair is important to clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.
You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water get into the home.
Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.
First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, 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. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you should call for help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with 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 problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.