When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly 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 broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double glazing repair Colchester pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but possible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window Repair biggin hill on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window repair Colchester, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and let water get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or window repair Biggin Hill loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality 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 broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.