When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, window repairs such as soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window Repairs with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time because of extreme temperature changes or 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 much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is 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 glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window repair appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or Window Repairs decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

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 with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the existing one.

To save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your upvc window repair frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.