When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows repair. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only make your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

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 full-blown breaks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and blown even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing 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 (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before 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 center of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a 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 entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs 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. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.