When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. double glazing repairs Clacton-on-Sea is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It 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.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and let water enter the home.
Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
Installing a drip cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. 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 window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.
Once you've removed the sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct places on the new window.
You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.