When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating correctly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your Window replacement (magachem.Com) if it is not damaged. 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 is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall 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.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from the 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 all you need to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, 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 first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window doctor that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on the new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast 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 using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.