When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

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

Glass that has cracked

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (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 repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to consult with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is 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 upvc windows cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like 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 prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical 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 coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window glass repair near me sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, repair windows you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect the way that the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.