When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water get into the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to 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, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and pane held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off 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 pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and pane applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A damaged sash, left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window repairs from the elements, as well.