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When It's Time to Repair Windows If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. The first step is to put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work. Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from getting into your home. Cracked glass Broken windows not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively. If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather. However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency. Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into complete breaks. A pressure crack is a much more serious crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch 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 can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all. Leaking Windows If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home. It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated. In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking. It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time. If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house. The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall. Faux Muntins & Mullions In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes. Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts. First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use double glazing Slough based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat. If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one. Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones. Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed. Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are. It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window. In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger issue. 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 boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.