When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work carefully. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but still possible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be 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 windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of leaks. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. 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 get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and double glazing repair 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. Now, 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 completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

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

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should contact a professional. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems 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.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in the correct places on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should upvc repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

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