When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting bigger or is extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products available for repairing cracks in your upvc window repair glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

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

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away 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 of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the 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 these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should call for help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, window repairs you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as 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 Repairs frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.