When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is 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 weather.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

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 explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair double glazing windows cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will 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 you notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, 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 comes from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of the 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 known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and Repair Windows vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. 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, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.