When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only makes your home look less appealing but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double glazed window repairs pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair my windows and doors cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent 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 the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.

If you have a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to 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 that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and repair my Windows And doors sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your window for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.