When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. The first step is to wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch 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.

If you're willing to go a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take 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 notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas with a rag and window repair an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a full 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, however.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must contact a professional. If left unchecked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one into its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window repair frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.