When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

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

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your Window Doctor with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and eventually can develop into complete breaks.

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

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few 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 route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call an expert if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water enter the home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of leaks. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style 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 series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and Window Doctor more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window doctor is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.