When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

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

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any existing caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with 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 inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. Today, window repair they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window repair muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the existing one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to seek help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and Window Repair sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one into its slot and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable 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 window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.