When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your Upvc window repair and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and upvc Window repair tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can 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 an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.

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

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

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away 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 bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.

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

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must call for help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window repairs frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, as well.