When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. 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 broken window doctor is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working 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 debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window doctor. It could be the result of high or window Doctor low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. 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'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows are double glazing-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, Window doctor paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they are different it can be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated 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 for two days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.