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When It's Time to Repair Windows It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work. An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home. Glass that has cracked Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively. Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not damaged. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather. If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method. An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency. Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks. A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract. If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all. Leaking Windows If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house. It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated. In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place. Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time. If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water to enter your home. The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. double glazing repair Carshalton occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint as 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 traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes. The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements. First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat. If you're dealing with an issue that is more serious such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one. To save money you can install an attached grid window. 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 are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows. Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working. Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash. It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window. You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising. If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.