When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. First, you should wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and seals keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or seals is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and Seals broken pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A more serious, but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign 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), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a 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 you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

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

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your upvc window repairs for damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.