10 Strategies To Build Your Repair Window Empire

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to make 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 a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

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

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of 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, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window repairs near me, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money you can also put in 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 are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to seek help. 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, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is 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 models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.