When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to enter. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common Window repairs cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window repairs glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and Window Repairs the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended 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.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can 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 properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. You'll need to remove the strip that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to put the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.