When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

An easy fix for a broken window doctor is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

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

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. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away with time and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with 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 come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek some help. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.