When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

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

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to speak with an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double glazed window repairs (Full Statement) pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go 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 notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, double Glazed window Repairs use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem like cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement window repairs near me that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you should contact a professional. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. 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. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to 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 quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.