When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
An easy solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent 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 protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin
upvc repairs near me the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, 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
Upvc repairs near Me stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the 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 get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.
Make sure you have a seal between your
double glazing-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.
Most of the time,
upvc repairs near me a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.
If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the 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 window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should call for help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
Often, the problem is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of
double glazing-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.
Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired 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 with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil.