When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect 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 the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on 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 pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or window doctor near me wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases 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 consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. 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 getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window doctor is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window Doctor near me models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.