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When It's Time to Repair Windows If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work. Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering the home. Cracked glass Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively. If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather. However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could compromise 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 due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks. A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend 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. There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all. Leaking Windows If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. double glazing repair Coulsdon , they may also cause structural damage to your home. If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage. In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied. Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time. Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water into your home. Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall. Faux Muntins & Mullions In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few older homes. Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components. Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat. If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size. To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however. If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A damaged window sash should be a signal that you should seek help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning. Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs 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 in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are. It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window. In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue. If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.