When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. First, put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double glazing-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide 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 be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate the right replacement window doctor (sneak a peek here) that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must call for help. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

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. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.