When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

An easy fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid 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 in the event that they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair window cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method 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 notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or repair window decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

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

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords on most double glazed window repair-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

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 two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.