When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window repairs with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double glazed window repairs-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

If you're willing to go 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 like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater but can become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and let water leak into the house.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties 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 panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue, such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window repair frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to call for help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards 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 of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated they can be treated with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.