When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, Window Repair that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to door repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window repair [you could try this out] and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part 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 have a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. It is important to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to place the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.