When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify 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 is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than tape and repairs nail polish, there are 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 rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

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

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

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your upvc window repair is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, repairs you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.