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When It's Time to Repair Windows It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work. Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from entering the home. Glass that has cracked Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball 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 ensure your windows are functioning properly. If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the elements. If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use. Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks. A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass. If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather 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 all. Leaking Windows If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house. It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated. In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place. Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris. Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home. Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing 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 the 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 a few older homes. Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components. First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted 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 a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size. If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows. If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. Spalding double glazing repair can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion. Broken Sashes & Frames A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with 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 operating. The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash. Once you've removed the sash, make sure you compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window. In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a larger problem. If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.