When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.

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

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double glazed window repairs-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious but doable crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, 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 in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.

If windows have double panes it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you have an even more serious issue, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the existing one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replacements replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the tabs on your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.