When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, you should put on a pair cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window repair, and can progress to full-blown breaks.

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

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area, but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it 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. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, replacing paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you have a more severe problem, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must seek help. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements too.