When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window Doctor near me breakage. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. 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 but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. 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 water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window replacement muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, 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 doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.