When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double glazed window repairs pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment 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 not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. 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, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window repairs, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement Window Repair that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should call for help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your window for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, window repair as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.