When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered 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 window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious, but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water enter the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a 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 cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window repairs near me that is in place in terms of the design and size.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same function as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should call for help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.