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When It's Time to Repair Windows It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work. An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home. Cracked Glass Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly. 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 protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements. However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. Waltham Abbey double glazing will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method. An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency. Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks. A more serious but still possible crack is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass. There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather do 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 any point. Leaking Windows If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house. It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage. In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place. You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris. If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home. Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of 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) 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 fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes. Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements. First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat. If you have an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the existing one. To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows. Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for 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've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed. The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located. It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect the way that the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window. You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you spot any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing. If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.