When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazing-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice 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. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're used only as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window doctor near me frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. It is important to remove the parting strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down over time. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.