When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could 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 window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

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

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting 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 known in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're used 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 leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

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