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When It's Time to Repair Windows It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work. A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home. Cracked Glass Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly. If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather. If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency. Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin 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 typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass. If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point. Leaking Windows If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house. If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold. In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer. You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris. Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home. Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes. Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be 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 parts. First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat. If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size. For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. double glazing repair Twickenham creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones. Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed. Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside. After you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window. You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing. If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.