When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly 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 cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but feasible crack is the 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 glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to enter the home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window replacement frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to 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 it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.