When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a broken Window Repair is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements to enter the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but still doable crack is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes, and will make the windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water get into the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indication of the presence of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in a few older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part 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 completely dry before removing the masking tape and window repair applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows consist of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functions as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window repair sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, window repair wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. You'll first 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. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.