When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

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

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most popular kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. 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 go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or repairmywindowsanddoors rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat 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 second coat.

If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases, Repairmywindowsanddoors you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. To access the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. It is important to repair 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 made with half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.