When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

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

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is the pressure crack. 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 lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window sash repairs appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, repair windows but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and allow water to enter the home.

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

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair double glazed windows most of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window then it's probably best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order 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 come with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to call for help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.